15 Kidnapped Victims Freed in Enugu State; Community Leader Calls for Enhanced Security Measures
15 Kidnapped Victims Freed in Enugu State; Community Leader Calls for Enhanced Security Measures
Fifteen individuals who were kidnapped from the Ibagwa-Agu community in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State have been freed after spending five days in captivity. They were released early Thursday morning, April 17, 2025.
The victims had been returning from a burial ceremony when they were ambushed by suspected Fulani herdsmen at a farm settlement and taken into the nearby bush.
Hon. Chidi Obetta, the representative for the Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, expressed his relief and happiness over their safe return. In a statement issued to reporters on Thursday, he said, “Their freedom has brought immense relief after the shock of their abduction. I am thankful to everyone involved in securing their release, particularly community leaders and security personnel.”
He described the rescue missions as challenging and dangerous, urging for proactive measures to avert future incidents in the area. He called on authorities—including the Police, Directorate of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), military forces, and the Enugu State Government—to launch targeted security operations in the region, highlighting the need to protect both residents and agricultural land.
Obetta shared that upon receiving news of the abduction, he took discreet actions to facilitate the safe return of the victims. The joy he felt upon their release was deeply personal, he added.
Describing Ibagwa-Agu as a critical agricultural center known for its production of crops like yam, cassava, maize, peppers, groundnuts, and palm oil, he warned that ongoing insecurity could disrupt food production and lead to shortages across the state and beyond.
According to intelligence he received, the kidnappers may be foreign mercenaries. He cautioned that without swift intervention, these criminals could gain a foothold in the region, as seen in previous incidents in Uzo-Uwani.
Obetta explained that about 13 of the victims were on a hired minibus returning from the burial when armed kidnappers blocked their path and forced them into the bush. Two additional victims—a father and son—who were following behind the bus were also taken.
He noted that the kidnappers likely targeted the victims due to a mistaken belief that they were affluent and could pay ransom, indicating a lack of knowledge about the local community.
Hon. Obetta appealed to the Inspector General of Police to instruct the Enugu State Commissioner of Police to send more security personnel to Ibagwa-Agu. He also urged Governor Peter Mbah to mobilize the Neighbourhood Watch to enhance security in the area.
“The criminals must be brought to justice,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for all necessary measures to protect the populace and preserve the agricultural economy.
