Nigeria: Four abducted nuns released

By Benedict Mayaki, SJ

Four Nigerian nuns of the Congregation of Sisters of Jesus the Saviour who were kidnapped by unknown persons on Sunday have been released.

The Secretary-General of the Congregation, Sr. Zita Ihedoro, SJS, made this known in a statement released on Tuesday.

“With hearts full of joy, the Sisters of Jesus the Saviour wish to announce the unconditional and safe release of four of our sisters who were abducted around Okigwe-Umulolo axis on the 21st of August 2022,” read the statement by the congregation.

Vatican News reported earlier that the four sisters, Johannes Nwodo, Christabel Echemazu, Liberata Mbamalu and Benita Agu, were kidnapped on their way to the thanksgiving Mass of one their colleagues.

“Today is a memorable day for us,” the statement said.

The nuns share their joy with “all men and women of Goodwill who in one way or the other have contributed to the quick and safe release of our dear sisters.”

“We sincerely appreciate and thank you for your prayers and moral support during this difficult moment,” the statement read. “May Jesus the Saviour whom we have come to serve, bless, protect and provide for you, especially in times of difficulty.”