Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has appealed to kidnappers responsible for the abduction of Archbishop Emeritus, Godwin Okpala to release him immediately.
Obi said it is unfortunate that after 10 days, the clergyman remains in captivity despite appeals from various quarters.
The former Anambra State Governor appealed to the abductors to release the Bishop on compassionate grounds.
“A few days ago, after receiving distressing news of the abduction of an Archbishop Emeritus, Godwin Okpala, I immediately made a passionate appeal to his kidnappers for his release.
“It is deeply troubling and unfortunate that, after 10 days, the 75-year-old revered prelate – old enough to be a father or grandfather to the abductors – remains in captivity. I once again appeal to the conscience of the abductors to release His Grace on compassionate grounds and put an end to all actions that endanger lives and undermine humanity,” Peter Obi appealed via a short message on his X account on Wednesday.
It would be recalled that tension gripped Anambra State following the mysterious disappearance of Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, the retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi.
According to reports, the Archbishop was last seen on Friday, December 6, when he embarked on a journey to Umuchu, a community within the state, but never arrived at his destination.
Prior to Wednesday’s fresh appeal, Obi had earlier called for the release of the clergyman.