The Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, a retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi, has regained his freedom, alongside his driver, after spending a harrowing month in the hands of kidnappers.

Archbishop Okpala confirmed the development early Thursday morning through a post on his Facebook page, where he wrote, “Praise the Lord!” The simple yet profound statement sparked an outpouring of gratitude and celebration from hundreds of well-wishers and members of the Anglican Communion.

The revered cleric was abducted while traveling to Umuchu, a community in Anambra State, for a burial ceremony. His disappearance sent shockwaves across the religious and wider community, with fervent prayers and calls for his safe return dominating discussions both online and offline.

Details surrounding the circumstances of his release remain unclear at this time. However, his freedom has been met with widespread jubilation, particularly on social media platforms associated with the Anglican Communion.

Among the first to share the joyful news was St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Nnewi, whose official Facebook page has been inundated with messages of thanksgiving and praise to God.

The abduction and subsequent release of Archbishop Okpala highlight the ongoing security challenges in the region, which have left many communities and families in distress. While the Archbishop and his driver are now safely reunited with loved ones, the incident underscores the urgent need for solutions to curb the rising menace of kidnappings in Nigeria.