Abducted Anambra reverend sisters released unconditionally

Two reverend sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, who were kidnapped last week in Anambra State, have been released.

Sister Vincentia Nwankwo and Grace Okoli regained their freedom after spending approximately six days in captivity.

The sisters were abducted on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, along Ufuma Road in Orumba North Local Government Area (LGA) while returning from a vocational association meeting in Ogboji.

Their release was confirmed in a press statement issued on Monday by the Secretary General of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Maria Ikeotuonye.

According to the statement, the sisters were released unconditionally and are in good health.

“I bring to your notice in joy that our dear Sisters Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Grace Mariette Okoli, who were kidnapped in the evening of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, have been released unconditionally and in good health,” the statement read.

“We thank God and thank you all for your prayers and support all through these rough and uncertain days. May God forever be blessed through Mary, our Mother.”

Anambra State Police Command Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also confirmed the release but stated that the command is still gathering information about the circumstances surrounding the abduction and release.

“Yes, we are hearing that the two nuns have been released, but the command is yet to take the brief from the victims to ascertain what happened. Further details shall be communicated,” Ikenga said.