Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Former presidential candidate on the platform of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has made case for the release of the kidnapped retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev. Godwin Okpala, saying he old enough to be their father.
He made the appeal in an X post on Wednesday, December 18.
Recall that the retired cleric and his driver were said to have gone missing on Friday, December 6, after embarking on a trip to the Umuchu community in Aguata Local Government Area of the state but failed to arrive at their destination.
The Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, confirmed their disappearance to journalists on Saturday and appealed to the faithful for intercessory prayers.
In his X post, Peter Obi charged the abductors of cleric to release him 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 added.