Kidnappers Release Ex-Imo Assembly Lawmaker Ngozi Ogbu

Former member of the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, who represented Okigwe Constituency, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the hands of abductors.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Imo State Command, Henry Okoye, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, noting that Ogbu was rescued on Wednesday night. He said the command was intensifying efforts to track down those behind the abduction.

“The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, the former legislator who represented Okigwe State Constituency. He was released last night. The Command is working in synergy with other security agencies to make sure his abductors are apprehended and brought to book. We are committed to enhancing the peace and security of everyone in Imo State,” Okoye stated.

Recall that Hon. Ogbu was abducted after he visited the gang’s camp to negotiate for peace so he could bury a deceased relative without disturbances.

Despite collecting money from him, the gang reneged on their promise, detained him, and took him deep into their camp in the bush.

Gentle the Yahoo and his second-in-command, “Angel Make Up”, had earlier released a video parading the lawmaker, threatening to kill him if the Imo State Government did not withdraw security operatives from Okigwe.

In the footage, believed to have been recorded by suspected IPOB/ESN members, he was seen pleading with authorities to withdraw security operatives from Okigwe, particularly from the “White House” base, which the abductors identified as their target.

The gang had threatened to kill him within four days if their demand was ignored.

However, in a swift and well-coordinated commando operation, the Nigerian Army stormed the gang’s camp in Aku, Okigwe. The operation led to the elimination of Gentle the Yahoo, Angel Make Up, and several other members of the group. Over 12 captives, including Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, were rescued alive.