Nigeria: four nuns released after four days of kidnapping

Four nuns kidnapped on Sunday, in southeastern Nigeria, were released by gunmen on Wednesday, according to the police.

Sisters Johannes Nwodo, Christabel Echemazu, Liberata Mbamalu and Benita Agu of the Congregation of Jesus the Savior in Nigeria were reportedly abducted on the morning of August 21, 2022 on their way to a thanksgiving mass.

On August 23, after days of searching they were released, and are “unharmed” according to a statement by the police on Wednesday, August 24, 2022.

Sister Zita Ihedoro, Secretary General of the Congregation of the Sisters of Jesus the Savior said : “Today is a memorable day for us, we wish to express this joy with all the men and women of Good Will who contributed to the rapid and safe release of our dear sisters.”

Kidnappings are common in Nigeria and most hostages are released after payment of a ransom, even though some are sometimes killed.

No details were given as to whether a ransom was paid to secure the release of the four nuns.