Tension as Anglican Archbishop and his driver go missing in Anambra

There is tension among Anglican faithful in Anambra State following the sudden disappearance of the retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev Godwin Okpala. 

Okpala and his driver have been missing since Friday morning, December 6, 2024, after they went on a trip to the Umuchu community in Aguata Local Government Area of the state, but failed to arrive at their destination.

It was gathered that despite efforts by the church to establish contact with them, no communication has been received and the whereabouts of the cleric, his driver and their vehicle have remained unknown.

A prayer request issued by the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, on Saturday, called for intercessory prayers for the Archbishop’s safe return.

“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,” the statement reads.

“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.” 

A member of the church’s communication board also confirmed the incident. 

“Yes, it is true, the bishop and his driver went on a trip to somewhere in Umuchu community on Friday morning and till now, their whereabouts have remained unknown,” he said. 

“We have contacted the relevant authorities and the police are aware of the development, we hope for the safe return of the bishop and his driver.”