Residents of Anambra State breathed a collective sigh of relief after the release of two abducted Reverend Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ (IHM), and a high-ranking state judge. The ordeal, which had cast a shadow of fear across the region, ended in jubilation and thanksgiving.
The Reverend Sisters, identified as Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Grace Mariette Okoli, were abducted on January 7, 2025, leaving their congregation and the state in despair. In a separate incident, an unnamed judge of the Anambra State High Court was kidnapped just outside his residence in Awka South Local Government Area on January 11, heightening tensions further.
News of their release, confirmed on Sunday, January 12, triggered celebrations across various communities. Supporters and family members have since been flocking to the judge’s home to express their relief and solidarity.
For the Reverend Sisters, their congregation announced the joyful news in a heartfelt statement. Signed by Sister Maria Sobenna Ikeotuonye, Secretary General of the IHM, the statement read: “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, 7th January 2025, have been released unconditionally and in good health. We thank God and thank you all for your prayers and support throughout these rough and uncertain days. May God forever be blessed through Mary our Mother.”
The release was met with jubilation among parishioners and residents alike, many of whom had spent sleepless nights praying for the victims’ safe return.
While the successful resolution of these cases brought immense relief, it also highlights the pervasive issue of abductions plaguing parts of Nigeria. Kidnappings for ransom have surged in recent years, with religious leaders, public officials, and ordinary citizens among the most frequent targets.
The abduction of the High Court judge underscores the widening net of criminal activities in the state. His kidnapping, which reportedly occurred while he was entering his home, shocked the judicial community, prompting concerns over the safety of public officials in the state.
“This isn’t just about one person or group—it’s about the general state of security in our region,” said a local resident, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
The recent wave of kidnappings has intensified calls for stronger government action against organized criminal syndicates. Stakeholders have pointed fingers at poor intelligence gathering and a lack of coordinated responses as key challenges.
Responding to the rising insecurity, community leaders and activists are urging Anambra State authorities to implement more robust security measures to protect vulnerable groups, including clergy, judicial officers, and women.
“It’s unacceptable for people to live in constant fear,” said Nnamdi Eze, a human rights advocate in Awka. “These abductions are an assault not just on the victims but on society as a whole.”
While specific details surrounding the release of the judge and the Sisters remain scant, reports suggest a concerted effort by local security operatives and community volunteers played a pivotal role. Whether any ransom was paid remains unclear, as the parties involved have maintained strict confidentiality.
The resilience and unity of the Immaculate Heart of Mary congregation stood out as a testament to the power of collective faith. Vigils and prayer sessions had been organized across several churches, with many seeking divine intervention for the victims’ freedom.
Across Awka and beyond, people have described this release as a reminder of the need for vigilance and the strength of a supportive community. Churches in the area have announced special thanksgiving services to commemorate the freedom of the abductees.
The release of the kidnapped Reverend Sisters and the judge marks a temporary reprieve for a state grappling with rising insecurity. However, residents are calling on authorities to channel this momentum into decisive action.
The collective prayers, cooperation, and the efforts of security operatives in this case send a powerful message: even in the darkest times, there is hope. Now, the challenge lies in preventing future occurrences and addressing the root causes of such crimes.
