The Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, and two of his priests have been hospitalised following a ghastly motor accident along Agulu Lake Road in Anambra State.
The revered bishop was reportedly returning from Ukpor to Agulu when the unfortunate incident occurred. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the clerics’ vehicle suffered a serious crash under yet-to-be-determined circumstances, prompting an emergency rescue by nearby residents and passersby.
All three victims were swiftly rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently undergoing intensive medical treatment. While the extent of their injuries remains undisclosed, hospital sources confirm that their condition is stable and under close medical supervision.
The incident was confirmed in a statement by The Catholic Treasure, a faith-based platform, which thanked God for sparing the lives of the bishop and the priests. The page also called for prayers from the faithful across the country.
Photographs from the scene, now circulating widely on social media, show the badly mangled vehicle, underscoring the severity of the accident. The disturbing images have sparked an outpouring of concern and solidarity, particularly from the Anambra Catholic community, religious bodies, and other well-meaning Nigerians.
As news of the accident spread, parishioners and sympathisers flooded various platforms with prayers for the quick recovery of Bishop Okoye and his companions. Many described the survival of the trio as a “miracle,” given the condition of the wrecked vehicle.
Authorities are yet to release an official report on the cause of the crash, but there are growing calls for improved safety measures and better road maintenance along the Agulu Lake axis, notorious for its winding curves and high accident rates.
The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi is expected to release an official statement as the clerics recover. Meanwhile, messages of goodwill and concern continue to pour in from both local and international Catholic communities.
PIONEER NEWS 