Anglican faithful and relatives gathered over the weekend for a survival and thanksgiving service in honor of Venerable Jonathan Ekechukwu, the Archdeacon of Nvosi Archdeaconry, who recently endured eight harrowing days in captivity after being kidnapped in Kogi State.
Ekechukwu and another priest, Venerable Ikechi Ohuonu, both from the Anglican Diocese of Isialagwa, were abducted in November 2024 by armed men while traveling to Abuja for an annual church program. Their captors held them in a forest for eight days, subjecting them to beatings and starvation.
During the thanksgiving service at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Nvosi, in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, Ekechukwu recounted their ordeal.
“We are grateful to be alive today. We were kidnapped and taken deep into the forest, where we suffered brutal beatings, flogging, and slaps from 2:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It was a horrific experience,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the Primate of the Anglican Church, Henry Ndukuba, and other Christian faithful whose prayers and support, he believes, contributed to their release.
Speaking at the service, the Anglican Bishop of Isialagwa Diocese, Bishop Temple Nwaogu, urged the Federal Government to strengthen security measures to protect citizens from criminal activities.
In his sermon, guest preacher Venerable Okezie Onuoha advised Ekechukwu to always acknowledge God’s intervention in his life and encouraged Christians to cultivate a heart of gratitude.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
