In the wake of a chilling incident involving kidnapping and ritual killings in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, stakeholders across the council have risen in one voice to condemn the act and demand immediate, sustained action against the perpetrators and other criminal elements threatening the peace of their communities.
The high-level security meeting, held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Igbudu Lodge in Aguobu Owa, was convened by the Executive Chairman of Ezeagu LGA, Dr. Vita Ndu. The forum drew together a powerful coalition of leaders from government, traditional institutions, religious bodies, and civil society to chart a new course for community safety.
The session came in response to the recent arrest of one Mr. Levi Onyeka Obieze, popularly known as “Ezeani, E Dey Play E Dey Show,” an alleged ritualist and self-proclaimed herbalist from Umuojo Isiagu, Umumba Autonomous Community, believed to have masterminded a series of kidnappings and ritual killings. His arrest, facilitated by the prompt intervention of security agencies and aided by advanced surveillance tools, has sparked widespread public outrage and an urgent call for reform.
Speaking during the gathering, Dr. Vita Ndu said, “The time has come to rid our communities of criminal elements. We cannot sit back while our people are terrorized by those who exploit tradition to commit evil. This meeting marks a turning point.”
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Her Excellency Lolo Cecilia Ezilo, former Deputy Governor of Enugu State; Rt. Hon. Chima Obieze, Member representing Ezeagu Constituency; Hon. Gerald Otiji, Enugu State Commissioner for Works; Hon. Mrs. Olangwa Ezekwu, Special Adviser on Diaspora Matters; and other prominent political figures. Also in attendance were traditional rulers such as HRH Igwe Emma Anichebe, Chairman of Ezeagu Council of Traditional Rulers, and other royal fathers who lent moral authority to the proceedings.
Stakeholders at the meeting extended heartfelt appreciation to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his visionary leadership and strategic investment in technology-driven security systems. These innovations, they noted, were instrumental in the swift arrest of the fleeing suspect. “We thank His Excellency for deploying tools that helped crack this case quickly. Without such innovation, this criminal might still be at large,” said one traditional ruler at the event.
The Enugu State Commissioner of Police and his team received commendation for their swift and professional response. Attendees also praised the 103 Battalion of the Nigerian Army for their rapid deployment and continued efforts in securing Ezeagu communities. The Nigerian Immigration Service, which played a key role in intercepting the prime suspect, was equally lauded for its vigilance and bravery.
The stakeholders condemned in the strongest terms the gruesome acts uncovered in Umuojo, Isiagu Umumba. The crime, they declared, was an abomination that has no place in a civilized society. “We must reject these abominable acts with every moral and legal strength available to us,” said Rt. Hon. Chima Obieze. “We owe it to our ancestors, and to our children.”
The gathering also expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims, acknowledging the trauma and loss suffered by the community. In a show of solidarity, participants resolved to establish an Ad Hoc Security Committee tasked with reviewing existing frameworks and recommending concrete reforms.
Part of the long-term strategy, the meeting agreed, would involve developing a harmonized community security architecture to be adopted uniformly across all towns and villages in Ezeagu. This system would ensure consistency and collaboration among local security outfits, vigilante groups, and traditional leaders.
Another central point of discussion was the urgent need for cultural and community vigilance. Villages, kindreds, and clans were urged to reassess traditional practices that could be misused to justify or conceal criminal activity. “We must realign our customs to reflect the true values of our people—honour, respect for life, and communal unity,” said HRH Igwe Emma Anichebe.
Dr. Vita Ndu, in his closing remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to restoring peace, securing justice, and fostering a sense of unity across the local government. “We will not rest until peace is restored and justice is served,” he emphasized. “Let us remain law-abiding, vigilant, and united as we work with security agencies and the state government to ensure that such evil does not take root in Ezeagu.”
The meeting concluded with a powerful message of resolve: the communities of Ezeagu are standing together, and they will not allow crime and fear to define their future.
