Church confirms release of 2 Catholic nuns in Anambra

Two reverend sisters from the Immaculate Heart of Mary congregation church  in Onitsha, Anambra, have regained their freedom after spending six days in captivity.

Sister Vincentia Nwankwo and Sister Grace Okoli were kidnapped on the evening of January 7, 2025. The sisters were released on January 13, 2025, and are reported to be in good health.

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

The statement, made available to the press on Monday, expressed gratitude to God, the church and to the community for their prayers and support during the ordeal.

“We bring to your notice with joy that our dear Sisters Vincentia Nwankwo and Grace Okoli, who were kidnapped on the evening of January 7, 2025, have been released unconditionally and in good health.

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

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The Anambra State Police Command has acknowledged the reports but has yet to officially confirm the details.

Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that he had seen a press release from the Immaculate Heart of Mary congregation church but was still working to verify the information.

“Efforts are ongoing to reach out to the congregation to ascertain the information and also take a brief from the reverend sisters who were allegedly kidnapped and later released,” he said. “As soon as we confirm the details, I will be able to speak authoritatively on what happened.”

The release of the two sisters has brought relief to their church ,congregation and the broader community, who had been praying for their safe return.