Abia Community Leader Demands Justice Over Alleged Kidnap, Torture Ordeal

A community leader in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Hon. Uduma Uguru, has called on Governor Alex Otti to step into what he describes as a stalled investigation into his alleged kidnapping, torture, and unlawful detention.

In a letter dated February 24, 2026, and addressed to the governor at Government House in Umuahia, Uguru narrated an ordeal he said involved Councillor Eke Daniel Urum and several youths from Amaekpu Ohafia. He further alleged that the incident was carried out with the support of the Deputy Governor, Ikechi Emetu.

Uguru noted that the fresh appeal followed an earlier petition he submitted on November 17, 2025. He thanked the governor for initially intervening, stating that the action led to an invitation from the Abia State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he was questioned over the claims.

According to him, DSS officials also took statements from his traditional ruler and other individuals mentioned in his complaint. He added that security operatives accompanied him from Umuahia to Amaekpu Ohafia, where he allegedly pointed out a building he described as a “torture chamber” where he was detained and mistreated.

Uguru disclosed that his lawyers later filed a separate petition before the Assistant Inspector General of Police at the Zone 9 Command Headquarters in Umuahia, detailing the alleged involvement of the councillor and others. However, he lamented that neither the DSS nor the Nigeria Police Force has provided any update on the outcome of their investigations or commenced prosecution against any suspects.

He warned that the lack of a public report or legal action could create the impression that some individuals are being protected, a situation he said could erode trust in the state’s security institutions.

The community leader urged Governor Otti to review the matter, stressing that the allegations involve serious offences, including kidnapping, unlawful detention, ransom demands, and torture.

He also expressed concern over a video allegedly capturing his torture, which he said has been circulating on social media since November 2025. Uguru claimed the footage has caused significant emotional trauma to him and his family, adding that his wife and children have been subjected to ridicule as a result.

Reiterating his faith in the state government’s resolve to safeguard citizens and uphold justice, Uguru appealed for prompt action to address the case and rebuild public confidence.

As of the time this report was filed, the Abia State Government, the DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations.