BREAKING: Church Confirms Release of Two Kidnapped Reverend Sisters in Anambra

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

The sisters are Sister Vincentia Nwankwo and Sister Grace Okoli.

The confirmation of their release was provided in a statement signed by Sister Maria Ikeotuonye, the Secretary General of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, which was shared with journalists on Monday in Onitsha.

According to the statement, Sister Nwankwo and Sister Okoli, who were abducted on the evening of January 7, 2025, have been released unconditionally and are reported to be in good health.

“We thank God and extend our gratitude to everyone for their prayers and support during these challenging and uncertain days. May God be eternally praised through Mary, our mother,” the statement read.

When contacted for confirmation, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesman for the Anambra police command, acknowledged he had seen a press release from the organisation.

“I cannot confirm its authenticity, but there are reports circulating regarding their release,” he stated.

“Efforts are underway to contact the congregation for verification and to obtain a statement from the reverend sisters who were allegedly kidnapped and subsequently released.

“As soon as we have that information, I will be able to provide an authoritative account of the events,” he concluded.