The Enugu State Government has pledged to ensure that arrested suspected ritualist and kidnap kingpin, Obi-Levi Obieze, faces the full weight of the law. This strong statement was made following Obieze’s arrest by officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service along the Badagry-Seme border in Lagos State.
Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made the declaration on Friday in a statement released in Enugu. According to Onyia, Obieze’s arrest marks a major breakthrough in the state’s ongoing battle against violent crime, particularly kidnapping and ritual killings.
Obieze, who had reportedly been on the run, was finally apprehended thanks to the alertness and cooperation of immigration officers and other security operatives. He has been linked to several cases of abduction and ritual killings in Enugu and neighbouring states.
In line with Enugu State laws on properties connected to criminal activities, the government swiftly moved to demolish Obieze’s mansion in his hometown of Umumba Ndiagu, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area. The demolition was carried out on Tuesday, May 27, as permitted by Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State.
Prof. Onyia emphasized that the state government is committed to delivering justice and will not tolerate criminality in any form. He said, “This arrest has further strengthened our hands in our bid to ensure that justice is served on all the persons involved in the gory incidents of abduction, kidnapping, and ritual killings linked to the suspect.”
He also used the opportunity to commend the vigilance of community members, local security outfits, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, whose efforts led to Obieze’s capture. Onyia called for continued cooperation between residents and security agencies in identifying and exposing criminal elements hiding in communities.
“This administration will not condone any form of criminality in our communities under any guise,” he said. “Community leaders, traditional rulers, Presidents-General of Town Unions, and Neighbourhood Watch groups must be vigilant and report suspicious individuals to the government or security agencies.”
The state government also issued a stern warning to those who assist or shield criminals. “Those who cover up for such criminals will also be treated as accomplices,” Onyia added.
The arrest of Obieze and the demolition of his property send a strong message that there will be no safe haven for criminals in Enugu State. The government has assured residents that more actions will be taken to dismantle kidnapping networks and bring all offenders to justice.
Enugu State has in recent years intensified efforts to address violent crimes through community policing, law reforms, and strict enforcement. The public is urged to remain alert and supportive of the government’s resolve to make the state safe for all.
