Two Catholic Reverend Sisters, Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Grace Mariette Okoli, were abducted by gunmen in Anambra State on January 7, 2025. The sisters were returning from a meeting in Ogboji. Police have launched a rescue operation, while the Catholic community calls for prayers for their safe release.
Two Catholic Reverend Sisters, Vincentia Maria Nwankwo, and Grace Mariette Okoli, were abducted by suspected kidnappers in the Ufuma community of Anambra State on January 7, 2025. The incident occurred along Ufuma Road as the sisters were returning from a vocational association meeting in Ogboji.
Reverend Sister Nwankwo serves as the Principal of Archbishop Charles Heerey Memorial Model Secondary School in Ufuma, while Sister Okoli is a teacher at Immaculata Girls Model Secondary School, Nnewi. The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, confirmed the abduction in a statement signed by their Secretary General, Sister Maria Sobenna Ikeotuonye. The statement called on the faithful to pray fervently for the sisters’ safe and unconditional release.
The Anambra State Police Command has launched a rescue operation. Police Commissioner CP Nnaghe Obono Itam visited the abduction site, assuring the public that investigations are underway and actionable clues have been identified. SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that efforts are being intensified to arrest the perpetrators and rescue the victims.
The authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid the rescue mission.
