The town of Umunze, Anambra State, is on edge following the abduction of two prominent individuals: Engr. Ezekiel Iheazor, the President General of the Umunze Progressive Union (UPU), and Nze Ikechukwu Okoli, a notable chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The kidnapping has left the community in a state of fear and uncertainty.
Abduction Amidst Heavy Rainstorm
The abduction occurred at the residence of Nze Ikechukwu Okoli in Lomu village during a heavy downpour, accompanied by gunfire. According to reports, Engr. Ezekiel Iheazor was visiting Okoli when the assailants struck. Eyewitnesses recount hearing gunshots as the attackers took advantage of the rainstorm to carry out their operation.
The gunmen stormed the premises, forcibly seizing both men before fleeing the scene in a Highlander jeep. A local resident, reflecting the widespread fear in the community, stated, “It is true, Umunze is in disarray. Our PG and Iykon were kidnapped. Today is Nkwo, our main market day, and it has been raining heavily."
Shock and Fear Grip Umunze
The atmosphere in Umunze is tense as residents grapple with the shocking abduction of their leaders. Many were taken by surprise, as the attack occurred during the market day, a time when community members are typically occupied with their businesses. One eyewitness mentioned hearing loud gunshots but was unable to investigate due to the heavy rain. "After the rain subsided, I reached out to friends near the market, and they confirmed nothing had happened there. Soon after, a community leader broke the sad news to me,” the witness recounted.
Iheazor's car was later found abandoned at Okoli’s residence, adding to the anxiety surrounding the incident. As of now, there has been no communication from the kidnappers regarding their demands, leaving the community in a state of unease.
Police Response and Investigation
The Anambra State Police Command has acknowledged the abduction, though official information remains limited. State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, noted that he had not yet received detailed reports on the incident. However, he stressed the need to distinguish between abduction and kidnapping, with the latter typically involving ransom demands.
SP Ikenga assured that efforts were underway to gather more information, promising to liaise with the Divisional Police Officer in Umunze to launch a full investigation into the matter.
Community in Distress
The abduction has left Umunze residents in a state of heightened fear as they await news of the fate of their leaders. The lack of communication from the kidnappers has only fueled anxiety in the community. As efforts to locate the abductees continue, the residents of Umunze remain hopeful for a swift resolution to the crisis that has shaken their town.
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