…Calls for Release of Predecessor, Archbishop Okpala
By Emeka Odogwu
The Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop, Diocese of Awka, His Grace, Most Rev’d Alexander Chibuzu Ibezim, has called for the release of Archbishop Emeritus, Archbishop Godwin Izundu Okpala retired who was abducted with his driver about 10 days ago along Umuchu-Umunze Road in Anambra State on his way to a burial ceremony.
Ibezim made the passionate appeal at the Cathedral Church of St Faith, Awka, yesterday, during the 2024 Advent Priestly ordination of nine candidates.
The event was witnessed by several clergymen, friend’s and well-wishers of the ordained priests who sang, danced and thanked God for making the celebration a success.
Those ordined priests during the service officiated by Archbishop Ibezim and assisted by Rt Rev’d Chijioke PhD, included: Agbata John Chkwunweike, 39 years, Anaemena Emmanuel Chijioke 45 years, Ezeador Alexander Ikechukwu 61 years, Ezeugo Ozoemena Chinonso 31 years, Igwe Clement Uchenna 36 years; Izuakor Chimaobi 66 years, Okeke Enoch Victor Chebechukwu 39 years;Okonkwo Johnson Uchechukwu 39 years; and Okoye Israel Onyeka 39 years;
Ibezim recalled thatRtd Archbishop Okpala, was elected first Bishop of Nnewi on December, 2, 1995, and from 2018, he served as the Archbishop of the Niger Province and retired few months ago.
He disappeared with his driver 10 days ago on their way to a neighbouring town in the state, lamenting that their where abouts remain unknown.
Ibezim prayed God Almighty to touch the heart of the captors, adding, “The Anglican Church and Nnewi Community have resorted to prayers for his release together with the driver.
His Lordship committed the ordained priests, Anglican clergies in Anambra state, the parishioners and entire citizens as well as residents in the state
in a fervent prayer.
He urged the ordained priests to see their calling as an avenue to serve and draw souls to Christ and elevate fortunes of the Christiandom.
“We will see the end of 2024 and enter 2025 in good health. .. God will deliver Anambraians from threats of Kidnappers.
“Parents, children and guardians will not be missing… No weapon fashioned against you shall prosper.
“God will remember, prosper and support all your endeavours ..May God be merciful to you.
“As we are gathered here for this occasion today, all will enter 2025 .., will not die on our duty posts. … God is our refuge.. our eyes will see the end of the wicked in Jesus name Amen”.
Assuring of hope and brighter future ahead, he further declared, “The years 2025 is year of total restoration and recovery….of whatever you’ve lost in previous years.
For people who would embark on travelling to various dmestinations this festival period, the Prelate added, “In the name of Jesus, those travelling to the villages shall return safely to their residences and Anambra state will be peaceful”.
He commended the St Faith Church Cathedral Choir Awka, saying that they have undiisputeably been rendering their best in the area of spiritual songs and services at various occasions, as he also thanked Mama Awka, his wife and President Mothers Union, Women’s Guild and Girls Guild as well as Young Wives Association, Diocese of Awka and Province of the Niger, Dr Mrs.Martha Chioma Ibezim for her contributions to Growth of church.
