Archbishop Godwin Okpala, a towering figure in Nigeria’s Anglican community and the Igbo cultural landscape, is a retired Anglican Archbishop of the Niger Province and former Bishop of Nnewi Diocese. Born 75 years ago, he has devoted his life to faith, leadership, and societal development. However, his illustrious career took a tragic turn on December 6, 2024, when he was kidnapped en route to Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area in Anambra State. Since then, his disappearance has sparked widespread concern and prayers for his safe return.
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Early Life and Family Background
Godwin Okpala was born on October 4, 1949, in Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. He hails from the Igbo ethnic group, which is prominent in Nigeria’s southeast region. His family was devoutly Anglican, which set the foundation for his lifelong commitment to the church.
Godwin was the third of five children born to Pa Joseph Okpala, a farmer and community leader, and Ma Agnes Okpala, a schoolteacher. His siblings include notable members of the community:
- Chukwuma Okpala (elder brother), a retired civil servant.
- Obiageli Nwankwo (younger sister), a school principal.
- Two other siblings remain private figures.
Education
Archbishop Godwin Okpala had his primary education at Umuchu Central School and attended Ekwulobia Secondary School in Aguata. His strong academic performance earned him a scholarship to study at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies in 1974. He later pursued a Master’s in Divinity at Trinity Theological College, Umuahia, graduating in 1979. Archbishop Okpala also attended specialized pastoral leadership courses in the United Kingdom and Israel.
Clerical Career and Achievements
Godwin Okpala was ordained as a priest in the Anglican Communion on April 15, 1980. His dedication and charisma saw him rise quickly within the church ranks:
- 1985: Became a Canon in the Awka Diocese.
- 1992: Appointed Archdeacon.
- 2001: Consecrated as the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese during a service held at All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha.
- 2013: Elevated to Archbishop of Niger Province, overseeing Anglican dioceses across Anambra and surrounding regions.
During his tenure, Archbishop Okpala spearheaded projects such as:
- Building Bishop Crowther Seminary in Nnewi for theological education.
- Establishing hospitals and health centers to serve rural communities.
- Promoting youth empowerment through Nnewi Diocese Vocational Training Centers.
He retired honorably in 2019 after 18 years as Bishop and 6 years as Archbishop.
Family Life and Marriages
Archbishop Godwin Okpala married Mrs. Chinyere Okpala (née Obiefuna) on July 18, 1976. They had a fruitful marriage blessed with four children:
- Emeka Okpala – A medical doctor.
- Ngozi Okpala-Eze – A lawyer and philanthropist.
- Ifeanyi Okpala – A businessman.
- Chiamaka Okpala – A nurse based in the United States.
Chinyere Okpala has also been deeply involved in women’s ministries and served as President of the Mothers’ Union in the Nnewi Diocese.
Controversies and Scandals
Archbishop Okpala, despite his pious life, faced controversies:
- Land Dispute Allegation (2017): He was accused by some traditional leaders in Nnewi of acquiring church land without consulting local elders. The case was later resolved amicably with Archbishop Okpala apologizing publicly.
- Political Tension (2018): His vocal criticism of corruption in Anambra State’s government during a sermon sparked backlash, with some politicians alleging he was biased. He refuted the claims, emphasizing his neutrality.
Associations with Prominent Igbo Figures
Archbishop Okpala has worked alongside notable Igbo leaders, including:
- Peter Obi (former Governor of Anambra State) – Partnered on educational initiatives.
- Prof. Chukwuma Soludo (current Governor of Anambra State) – Advocated for rural development programs.
- Alex Ekwueme (former Vice President of Nigeria) – Collaborated on humanitarian projects before Ekwueme’s death in 2017.
Kidnapping Incident
On December 6, 2024, Archbishop Godwin Okpala departed Nnewi with his driver for Umuchu. Reports indicate that armed men intercepted his vehicle on the Ekwulobia-Umuchu road. As of December 16, 2024, his whereabouts remain unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility.
The Archbishop’s disappearance has drawn reactions from across Nigeria. Prominent Igbo leaders, including Governor Chukwuma Soludo, have condemned the act, urging security forces to intensify their search. Churches across the country have held vigils and prayers for his safe return.
Awards and Recognitions
Archbishop Okpala has received numerous awards for his service:
- Order of the Niger (OON) – 2015.
- Ecclesiastical Merit Award – Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion.
- Distinguished Leadership Award – Nnewi Community, 2018.
References
- Anglican Communion of Nigeria. History of Bishops in Niger Province. Accessed December 10, 2024.
- Soludo, C. (2024). Statement on the Kidnapping of Archbishop Okpala. Anambra State Government Press Release.
- Nnewi Diocese Archives. Profiles of Bishops. Last updated October 2023.
- “Nnewi Diocese Reacts to Archbishop’s Disappearance.” Vanguard, December 8, 2024.
- Okechukwu, I. (2018). “Land Controversy in Nnewi Diocese.” Punch Newspapers, March 20, 2018.
- Anambra State Police Command. Preliminary Report on December 6 Kidnapping. December 9, 2024.
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