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The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, have confirmed the abduction of two of their members, Sister Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Sister Grace Mariette Okoli, in Anambra State, Nigeria.
The incident occurred on the evening of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, along the Ufuma Road as the sisters were returning from a vocational association meeting held in Ogbunike.
Victims Identified
Sister Vincentia Maria is the Principal of Archbishop Charles Heerey Memorial Model Secondary School, Ufuma, while Sister Grace Mariette serves as a teacher at Immaculate Girls Model Secondary School, Nnewi. Both women are well-regarded for their dedication to education and the Church.
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The Catholic congregation expressed deep concern over their safety and called on all faithful to join in prayer for their swift and unconditional release.
Church’s Appeal for Prayers
In an official statement signed by Sister Maria Sobenna Ikeotuonye, Secretary General of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, the Church urged believers to seek divine intervention for the sisters’ safe return.
“We commend our Sisters Vincentia Maria and Grace Mariette to the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary for their speedy release from the hands of their kidnappers,” the statement read.
The Church further encouraged fervent prayers and supplications, asking God to protect the sisters and bring them back unharmed.
The congregation appealed to the kidnappers to release the sisters without harm, emphasizing the critical roles they play in the community.
Security Concerns in Anambra
This abduction adds to the growing security concerns in Anambra State and other parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings have become alarmingly frequent. Religious figures, educators, and community leaders have often been targeted, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty.
TJ News Nigeria understands that the Catholic community and well-wishers nationwide are uniting in prayer for the safe return of Sister Vincentia Maria Nwankwo and Sister Grace Mariette Okoli.
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The incident highlights the urgent need for the President Bola Tinubu’s government to improved security measures, protect citizens and curb the rising cases of abduction in the region.
Authorities are yet to release details on the efforts being made to secure the sisters’ release, but the Church remains hopeful for divine intervention.
