Two Reverend Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, and an Anambra High Court Judge, who were kidnapped last week, have been released.
The Reverend Sisters, identified as Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Grace Mariette Okoli, were abducted while returning home after attending a meeting.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Similarly, the Anambra High Court Judge, whose name has been withheld for security reasons, was kidnapped on Saturday, January 11, upon entering his residence in Awka.
A source close to the judge’s family revealed to Vanguard that the judge was released on Sunday, January 12, just 24 hours after his abduction.
In a statement titled “Notification of Release and Expression of Profound Gratitude,” Sr. Maria Sobenna Ikeotuonye, IHM Secretary General, announced the release of the Reverend Sisters.
“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,” she said.
Sr. Ikeotuonye expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who had supported the congregation during the trying times. “We thank God and thank you all for your prayers and support all through these rough and uncertain days. May God forever be blessed through Mary our Mother,” she added.
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