Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has ordered the complete demolition of a bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma Local Government Area, following a daring rescue operation that led to the freeing of four kidnapped victims. The rescue came after a fierce gun battle between tactical officers of the Abia State Police Command and the kidnappers. The governor’s decision to demolish the bungalow is part of his administration’s commitment to combating criminal activities in the state.
Governor Otti made the announcement on Saturday during a press briefing at the Banquet Hall of the Abia State Government House. Speaking alongside the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, the governor made it clear that his government would not tolerate any building or individual linked to criminal activities. He also declared that the owner of the bungalow would be prosecuted.
“I instructed earlier today that the bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma Local Government Area, be completely demolished. We will also identify and prosecute the owner of the building,” Governor Otti said, emphasizing that his administration was committed to rooting out crime in the state.
Governor Otti’s strong stance on crime prevention was further reinforced when he directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Uzor Nwachukwu, to engage the Traditional Ruler of Osokwa Community. The governor sought an explanation on how such a criminal operation could take place in the community without the traditional ruler’s knowledge.
“I am directing the Commissioner for Local Government to meet with the Traditional Ruler of Osokwa to explain how such a criminal activity could happen under his watch,” Governor Otti added.
The rescue operation, which unfolded with precision and bravery, saw the Abia State Police Command successfully neutralize six kidnappers during a fierce firefight in the Osisioma area. The Governor commended the police for their swift response, adding that the operation exemplified their readiness to fight crime in the state.
The kidnapping incident began on March 9, when four men were abducted along Umuahia New Road in Obingwa by unknown gunmen. According to CP Danladi Isa, the state police command acted quickly, using advanced technology to track the kidnappers to their location in Osisioma.
“Our tactical team immediately swung into action, utilizing our technology to track the kidnappers’ location in Osisioma,” CP Isa explained. “Yesterday, we moved in and encountered them in a fierce gun battle. Despite being under intense fire, our tactical team successfully rescued the victims and neutralized six of the kidnappers.”
CP Isa praised the officers for their bravery and professionalism in handling the operation, noting that the success of the mission demonstrated the capability of the police in tackling criminal elements within the state.
In his speech, Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Abia State residents. He reiterated that no part of the state would be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals. He also expressed his deep gratitude to the police officers involved in the operation and hinted at a financial reward for their efforts.
“We have made it clear that no part of Abia will be ceded to criminals. On behalf of the Abia State Government, I thank you,” Governor Otti said. “I have already whispered to the CP that a financial reward awaits you.”
Governor Otti’s administration has been making efforts to improve the state’s security, and this latest operation serves as a testament to the government’s determination to tackle criminal activity head-on. The demolition of the bungalow in Osokwa and the prosecution of the building’s owner are seen as part of a broader effort to send a clear message that those who harbor criminals will be held accountable.
The public has generally welcomed the actions of the Abia State Government, with many praising Governor Otti’s decisive move to not only ensure the criminals involved in the kidnapping are brought to justice but also to hold the property owner accountable. The demolition of the bungalow is seen as a strong deterrent to those who might be considering using their properties for illegal activities.
Abia residents, particularly those in the Osisioma Local Government Area, expressed relief and support for the government’s actions. Some noted that the move would instill confidence in the police and the state government’s ability to fight crime effectively.
“I am happy to see that the governor is taking bold steps to fight crime. Demolishing that building is a good example to others who may be involved in criminal activities,” said Chinonso Ugochukwu, a resident of Aba. “It will help restore the people’s confidence in the government.”
Kidnapping for ransom has been a growing concern across Nigeria, with various criminal groups targeting both urban and rural communities. Abia State has not been immune to these criminal activities, and while the state government and police have made efforts to address the issue, incidents of kidnapping have remained a serious threat to public safety.
Governor Otti’s administration has pledged to continue strengthening security measures in the state. In addition to the police, Otti’s government is exploring other security initiatives to ensure the safety of its citizens. This includes equipping law enforcement agencies with modern tools and technology to combat criminal activities, particularly in remote areas.
The governor’s decision to take action against the property owner also sends a strong message that harbouring criminals will not be tolerated. In the past, Nigerian authorities have struggled to prosecute property owners who knowingly allow their properties to be used for illegal activities. By holding property owners accountable, Governor Otti is taking a significant step in addressing this gap in law enforcement.
