A former chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Chief Obasi Lawson has reportedly been kidnapped in Abia State.
This is even as his driver and another occupant of the vehicle were killed.
He was said to have been kidnapped by unknown gunmen around Mkap Jekere, Azumini, Ndoki in Ukwa East Local Government Area of the state as he and other occupants of the vehicle were heading to Arochukwu from their base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Police sources claimed that police in the state command have launched an investigation into the matter to ensure prompt release of the kidnapped victim.
A release on Friday by the Abia State Police Command’s spokesperson, Maureen Chinaka has it that the gunmen who operated in a dark blue Sienna double-crossed them and opened fire on them.
According to Chinaka “On 04/03/2025 at about 21:30 hrs, we received a report from Sergeant Judge Gubi that ASP Tanko Natip, Inspector Ernest and himself from Special Protection Unit (SPU) Base 6, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, who were attached as escorts to Chief Obasi Lawson, traveled to Arochukwu.
“At about 13:00 hours, while returning to Port Harcourt through Azumini Ndoki, Ukwa East Local Government Area, they were ambushed at Mkap Jekere Ndoki around 19:00 hours.
“An unknown dark blue Sienna vehicle carrying unidentified gunmen double-crossed them and opened fire.
“While the officers were repelling the attack, another set of gunmen forcefully took Chief Lawson, ordered them into their vehicle and took them to an unknown destination, leaving his driver and one other dead.
“Tactical teams were immediately drafted to the scene and the area is presently being combed with the view to rescuing the victim unhurt.
“The crime scene has been visited and the area is being combed by police operatives.
“The Commissioner of Police Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa immediately visited the area in the company of DC Operations and other teams and urged residents to remain calm and security-conscious as intensive patrol has been activated in the area.
“He advised the public to report any individuals with gunshot wounds or any dark blue Sienna vehicle to the nearest police station.”
