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Arrest Made in Chilling Case of Child Abduction and Ritual Murder in Anambra State
The Anambra State Police Command has successfully detained a suspect, identified as Friday Akonobi, in connection with the abduction and ritualistic killing of a six-year-old girl. This case is intricately linked to an alleged native doctor based in Enugu, Obieze Ezeani, who is currently under investigation.
Background of the Case and Arrest Details
According to reports from LIB, Obieze Ezeani-also known by the aliases “Edey Play” and “Edey Show”-was apprehended by the Nigerian Immigration Service while attempting to escape the country via a land border. Authorities discovered multiple bodies buried in soakaway pits within his residence located in Umumba Ndiagu, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State.
Victim’s Abduction and Investigation Progress
Spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed in a statement dated January 18, 2026, that the victim, Ozioma Nwankwo, was kidnapped on May 10, 2025, from Ikwo Local Government Area in Ebonyi State. She was subsequently taken to the native doctor’s compound in Enugu State.
Confession and Network of Accomplices
During interrogation, Akonobi admitted to his involvement in the crime alongside four other suspects who remain at large. He disclosed that Ezeani compensated each accomplice with one million Naira (₦1,000,000) for delivering a virgin girl to him. The victim was reportedly murdered and used in ritualistic practices.
Law Enforcement Response and Public Assurance
SP Ikenga stated, “Our Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu acted promptly on credible intelligence, leading to the arrest of Friday Akonobi, aged 28, on January 17, 2026. This arrest is directly connected to the abduction and ritual killing of the six-year-old girl.”
He further confirmed that the native doctor, Obieze Ezeani, has been taken into custody by the Enugu State Police Command. The case has attracted significant public attention, especially after videos related to the investigation circulated widely on social media platforms.
Ongoing Efforts and Commitment to Justice
The Anambra State Police Command has pledged to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in this heinous crime. Authorities are committed to ensuring that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law. Updates on the investigation will be provided as new information emerges.
Context and Broader Implications
This disturbing incident highlights the persistent challenges law enforcement faces in combating ritualistic crimes and child abductions in Nigeria. According to recent data from the Nigerian Police Force, cases of ritual killings have seen a worrying increase of 15% over the past two years, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced community vigilance and stronger legal frameworks.
Communities are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly to authorities to prevent further tragedies. The collaboration between state police commands and immigration services in this case exemplifies the critical role of inter-agency cooperation in tackling cross-border criminal activities.
