Tension has gripped Anambra State following the disappearance of Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, the retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi. DAILY POST reports that the Archbishop was last seen on Friday when he set off for Umuchu, a community within the state.

As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the Archbishop and his driver were abducted.

On Saturday, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, issued a prayer alert urging the faithful to pray for the safe return of the Archbishop. The alert reads:

“PRAYER ALERT from BISHOP Ndubuisi Obi of Nnewi Diocese.

Dearly Beloved in Christ,

With heavy hearts, we bring to your attention the distressing news that our beloved 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 with his driver but unfortunately did not arrive at his destination. There has been no communication from him, his driver, or any sign of the vehicle.

We earnestly ask for your fervent prayers for their safety and prompt return. Authorities have been notified, and we trust in God’s intervention for a positive outcome.

Please join us in prayer, trusting in the Lord, who watches over us all, to bring our Father in God and his driver back safely.

Thank you for standing with us in this time of distress.”