Community Leader Petitions Abia Governor Over Alleged Kidnap, Torture, Delay in Investigation (Photos)
A community leader from Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Hon. Uduma Uguru, has formally appealed to Governor Alex Otti to intervene in what he described as a prolonged delay in the investigation of his alleged abduction, torture and unlawful detention.
In a letter dated 24 February 2026 and addressed to the Governor at Government House, Umuahia, Uguru recounted his ordeal, which he alleged was carried out by Councillor Eke Daniel Urum and a group of youths from Amaekpu Ohafia. He further alleged that the incident was orchestrated with the backing of the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechi Emetu.
Uguru stated that the correspondence followed an earlier petition he submitted on 17 November 2025, for which he expressed appreciation to the governor for initiating preliminary intervention. According to him, the intervention led to an invitation from the Abia State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he was interviewed regarding the allegations.
He explained that DSS operatives also obtained statements from his traditional ruler and other individuals mentioned in his complaint. Uguru further claimed that security officers accompanied him from Umuahia to Amaekpu Ohafia, where he allegedly identified a location he described as a “torture chamber” where he was held captive and subjected to inhumane treatment.
The petitioner disclosed that his legal representatives subsequently filed a formal petition before the Assistant Inspector General of Police at Zone 9 Command Headquarters in Umuahia, detailing the alleged actions of the councillor and his associates. However, he expressed concern that neither the DSS nor the Nigeria Police Force had communicated the outcome of any investigation or initiated prosecution against any suspect.
Uguru argued that the absence of an official report or legal action had created a perception that certain individuals might be shielded from justice, warning that such a situation could undermine public confidence in law enforcement institutions within the state.
He urged the governor to revisit the matter, describing the alleged offences as involving kidnapping, detention, ransom collection and torture of a citizen within Abia State.
The petitioner also raised concerns over a video recording purportedly showing his torture, which he claimed has circulated widely on social media since November 2025. He said the continued circulation of the footage has caused emotional distress to him and his family, alleging that his wife and children have faced repeated taunts as a result.
Reaffirming his confidence in the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Uguru appealed for swift action to ensure justice and restore public trust.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Abia State Government, the DSS, or the Nigeria Police Force regarding the allegations.
