The security situation in Imo State took a troubling turn as the President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, was reportedly abducted by unidentified gunmen on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The incident, which occurred at Work Layout, near the IMSU junction in Owerri, has left family members, colleagues, and associates deeply concerned about his safety.
Details of the Abduction
According to reports, the armed assailants, driving a Sienna and a Lexus SUV, stormed the area and forcefully took Igboayaka. Following the abduction, all attempts to contact him via his mobile phone have been unsuccessful, as his lines were reportedly switched off immediately after the incident.
Confirming the development, the President of the Igbo National Council (INC), Chilos Godsent, expressed grave concern over the sudden disappearance of the youth leader. He noted that the incident has caused widespread anxiety within the Ohanaeze Youth Council, as well as among Igbo political and social circles.
He stated: “Since this sad news broke, efforts by members of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), his family, and close associates to reach him have all failed. His mobile lines have remained unreachable since the abduction. This situation has thrown his followers and loved ones into deep confusion.”
The INC has, therefore, called on the Imo State Police Command and other relevant security agencies to take immediate action in identifying and apprehending the culprits.
Police React, Launch Investigation
In response to the abduction, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, stated that security operatives have commenced a full-scale investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine Igboayaka’s whereabouts.
Okoye also addressed circulating rumors suggesting that the police were responsible for the arrest of the OYC President. He categorically denied these claims, emphasizing that the police had no involvement in his disappearance.
“The command has launched a thorough investigation to locate the whereabouts of Comrade Igboayaka and ensure that he is safely reunited with his family,” Okoye assured.
Rising Security Concerns in Imo State
This abduction adds to the growing concerns over the security situation in Imo State and the South-East region at large. Kidnappings, violent attacks, and other forms of criminal activities have been on the rise, prompting calls for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.
As investigations continue, the public, especially the Igbo community, remains hopeful for the safe return of the Ohanaeze Youth President. Various stakeholders, including community leaders and security agencies, are being urged to intensify efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka has sent shockwaves across the South-East, particularly within the Ohanaeze Youth Council and the Igbo National Council. As security operatives work to unravel the mystery behind his abduction, the call for enhanced security remains paramount.
For now, the Imo State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice, while family, friends, and associates continue to pray and hope for his safe return.
