Some guests kidnapped during the burial ceremony of Dr. Virginia Nnenna Onyeka in Ibite Okpatu, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, have regained their freedom.
Onyeka was an Associate Professor in the Department of Accountancy at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).
The group, which included the deceased’s daughter, photographer and videographer, were abducted by unknown gunmen on July 18, 2025, while on their way to retrieve her body from the mortuary.
The kidnapping occurred near the boundary between Okpatu and Awhum, highlighting the security vulnerability of the area.
One individual sustained a gunshot wound during the initial ambush and is receiving treatment in a hospital.
The attack had sparked outrage, with many expressing frustrations over the escalating insecurity in the state.
“This is no longer just a criminal act; it is a complete breakdown of security in our communities. If mourners can no longer bury their dead in peace, then nowhere is safe anymore,” said an elderly man resident in the area.
Although the Enugu State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding their release, a friend of one of the victims said that they had been freed after paying an undisclosed amount of ransom.
“My neighbour was actually involved, but he has been released. He was released two days ago but hasn’t returned to the house. I believe he is probably in the hospital undergoing a proper medical checkup,” said the source.
The assailants initially demanded a ransom of N200 million for the victims.
However, the exact number of those abducted remains unclear, with conflicting reports putting the figure at seven, nine, or even 12.
