A Mission for Peace Turns Hostage Nightmare
Former Imo State House of Assembly member, Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, who once represented the Okigwe State Constituency, was recently rescued from captivity following a daring operation by the Nigerian Army. Ogbu, reportedly abducted by a notorious kidnapping gang while attempting to broker peace in his community, had visited a militant camp in Aku, Okigwe to negotiate a truce that would allow him to bury a deceased relative without incident.
Instead, he became a hostage.
A Threat Made Public
In a shocking development, the gang—led by a wanted criminal known as Gentle the Yahoo and his second-in-command Angel Make Up—released a disturbing video showing the former lawmaker in their custody. In the footage, the kidnappers threatened to execute Ogbu unless the Imo State Government withdrew its security operatives from Okigwe. The video circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage and concern across the state.
Army Strikes: Ogbu and Others Freed
Swiftly responding to intelligence, the Nigerian Army launched a coordinated assault on the kidnappers’ camp in Aku, Okigwe. The operation led to the safe rescue of Hon. Ngozi Ogbu and over a dozen other captives. The rescue mission has been hailed as a significant win against violent criminal elements in the region.
Police Confirm Rescue and Ongoing Investigation
Confirming the development, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, stated:
“The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, the former legislator who represented Okigwe State Constituency. He was released yesterday night. The Command is working in synergy with other security agencies to ensure his abductors are apprehended and brought to justice.”
He further assured the public of the police’s unwavering commitment to peace and security in Imo State.
A Growing Threat to Community Stability
The incident is the latest in a string of violent activities attributed to armed gangs in the southeast, with many using kidnapping as a tool to destabilize communities and resist state authority. Hon. Ogbu’s abduction underscores the risks faced by public figures and community leaders in conflict zones—even when acting with peaceful intent.
Share Your Thoughts
The courage shown by Hon. Ngozi Ogbu in his quest for peace—and the swift response by security forces—deserves both commendation and reflection. What more should be done to end insecurity in our communities?
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