20th March, 2020
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) in Lokoja, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, has confirmed the release of the wife of the Anglican Bishop of Bari Diocese in Kano State, who was kidnapped last week.
Okoh announced this during a live broadcast of a consecration service of five new bishops and presentation of two archbishops, at the Cathedral Church of Holy Trinity, Lokoja, Kogi State.
The victim, Mrs. Saratu Zubairu and a Diocesan secretary simply identified as Deborah, were kidnapped on the morning of March 10. They were taken by gunmen who reportedly laid siege to Gidan Mato in Bari, where the Anglican Cathedral and Bishop’s Court are situated, and looted the town and premises.
However, Okoh told the congregation that Zubairu and the secretary had regained their freedom.
The newly consecrated Bishops are Felix Olorunfemi for Etsako Diocese; Cletus Tambari, Gombe Diocese; Benson Chukwunweike for Awgu/Aninri Diocese.
Two Suffragan (assistant) bishops, were also consecrated for the Convocation of Anglicans in North America (CANA), a missionary body of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
They are Bishops Scott Seely and Celestine Ironna for CANA West.
Similarly, the Most Rev. Markus Ibrahim was presented as the new Archbishop of the Province of Jos, while the Most Rev. Cyril Odutemu for the Province of Bendel.