Abducted Nuns Released Without Conditions in Nigeria

Two Nigerian nuns who were abducted earlier this month have been released unconditionally. The nuns, Sister Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Sister Grace Mariette Okoli were kidnapped on January 7th while returning from a vocational association meeting in Ogboji, Anambra State.

The Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Mother of Christ, to which the nuns belong, announced their release on January 13th. The congregation expressed immense gratitude to God and to all those who offered prayers and support during the difficult days of the nuns’ captivity.

Sister Vincentia Maria, the principal of Archbishop Charles Heerey Memorial Model Secondary School in Ufuma, and Sister Grace Mariette, the principal of Immaculate Girls Model Secondary School in Nnewi, were abducted along Ufuma Road in Orumba North Local Government Area. Their release has sparked widespread jubilation among their congregation and the local community.

The abduction and subsequent release of the nuns highlight the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have become alarmingly frequent. Emeka Umeagbalasi, the executive director of Intersociety, a Catholic-inspired organization for civil liberties, lamented the increasing attacks on clergy and religious figures in the region.

Despite the challenges, the unconditional release of the nuns is seen as a beacon of hope. The congregation’s secretary general, Sister Maria Sobenna Ikeotuonye, commended the powerful intercession of the Blessed Mother Mary for the nuns’ safe return.

As the nuns reunite with their community, their release serves as a reminder of the resilience and faith of those who continue to advocate for peace and security in Nigeria. The congregation remains hopeful that such acts of violence will cease and that the country will move towards a more secure and just future.

Also Read: Apostle Emmanuel Iren’s Free School in Ibadan Nears Launch