Okpala, who was abducted while traveling to Umuchu in Anambra State to attend a burial ceremony, announced his freedom on Thursday morning via his Facebook page, writing, “Praise the Lord!” His post has since been flooded with expressions of gratitude and relief from his followers and well-wishers.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the news of Okpala’s release has been widely celebrated on social media platforms, particularly those affiliated with the Anglican Communion, such as the official page of St.
Stephens Anglican Church, Nnewi. His return comes a month after his kidnapping, which had left his community and the wider church anxious for his safe return.
In a separate incident, kidnappers have demanded a ransom of ₦75 million for the release of Reverend Canon Olowolagba, an Anglican priest, along with his wife and two children.
The family was abducted along the Ise Akoko-Iboropa road in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The abduction occurred on Sunday afternoon, and their disappearance was confirmed the next morning when church members realized they had not reached their destination in Ikaram-Akoko.
According to reports, Reverend Olowolagba, a native of Ikaram-Akoko, was traveling with his wife, Mrs. Olowolagba, their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness Olowolagba, and a nine-year-old girl, Idowu, who was staying with them.
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The kidnapping was confirmed by the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Reverend Babajide Bada, who stated that the family had not arrived as expected.
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Here’s the video of the week: