The retired Anglican Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, has been declared missing.
According to sources, Okpala and his driver whose name could not be obtained at press time, were last seen on Friday morning while traveling to Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area (LGA), where Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Isuofia community also belonged.
It was also learnt that all efforts made by his members and the church to establish contact with either him or the driver proved abortive and he had not arrived at his destination.
Meanwhile, the Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, had issued a prayer alert on Saturday, urging the faithful to embark on intercessory prayers for the Archbishop safe return.
It reads, “Prayer Alert from BISHOP Ndubuisi Obi of Nnewi Diocese. Dearly Beloved people of God, with a deeply burdened heart, we write to inform you of the distressing news that our revered Father in God, the Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala (Retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi), has been missing since yesterday morning.
“He embarked on a journey to Umuchu accompanied by his driver but, unfortunately, never arrived at his destination. Since then, there has been no communication, and neither he, his driver, nor the vehicle have been located.
“We earnestly plead for your fervent prayers for their safety and swift return. The relevant authorities have been contacted, and we are hopeful and trusting in God’s divine intervention for a positive resolution.
“Please, join us in prayer of intercession, trusting in the Lord, whose watchful eyes never slumber, to bring our beloved Father in God, and his driver back to us safely. Thank you for standing with us in this moment of distress.”
But when contacted, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Tochukwu Ikenga, said he was unaware of the development.