Enugu LG Chairman Hails Gov. Mbah on Tough Stand Against Insecurity; Kidnapping, as As State Govt Demolishes Criminal Hideout

 

The Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, has commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his unwavering commitment to the security of lives and property in the state, particularly his firm resolve in tackling the menace of kidnapping.

Hon. Ogbodo made the commendation on Tuesday during the demolition of a bungalow at Umueze Awkunanaw in Nkanu West LGA, which was used as a hideout by a kidnapping syndicate. The demolition, he noted, was in strict accordance with the laws of Enugu State and Governor Mbah’s standing directive that any property used to harbour or aid criminal activity would be pulled down.

According to reports, security operatives rescued a kidnap victim from the building earlier in the week after storming the hideout. The prime suspect, identified as Igwenagu Ogbodo, and his gang members escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, while the victim, his vehicle, and several arms and ammunition were recovered.

Speaking to newsmen at the scene, Hon. Ogbodo expressed appreciation to Governor Mbah for his political will, technological investment, and proactive measures in the ongoing fight against insecurity.

“His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, promised Ndi Enugu that any house harbouring criminals or used for kidnapping would be demolished, and that is exactly what we are witnessing today. This government is serious about restoring peace and order, and this demolition is a bold statement that there is no safe haven for criminals in Enugu State,” he said.

He further noted that while this was not the first property to be demolished in the state under Governor Mbah’s administration, it marked the first in Nkanu West — a development he described as a strong deterrent to others involved in criminal acts.

“I urge all communities and Presidents-General to remain vigilant, monitor activities within their neighbourhoods, and report any suspicious movements to security agencies. Property owners must also be mindful of their tenants and what goes on in their buildings because any house used for criminal purposes will not be spared,” he added.

The council chairman reaffirmed confidence in the state government’s capacity to track down the fleeing suspects, emphasizing that Governor Mbah’s administration had equipped security agencies with the tools and manpower needed to rid the state of crime.

“Those who still engage in crime should understand that there is no hiding place in Enugu State of today. The arm of the law will catch up with them sooner than they think,” Hon. Ogbodo declared.

Several residents of Umueze Awkunanaw who witnessed the demolition described the suspect as an ex-convict with a history of criminal behaviour.

Mr. Ikechukwu Amos, a community elder, said the suspect had long been notorious for illegal activities.

“He just came back from prison not long ago, and since then he has been indulging in drug abuse and criminal acts. We warned him repeatedly, but he refused to listen. Now, everyone can see the consequence of his actions,” he said.

Similarly, another indigene, Mr. Edeh Chidera Kingsley, condemned the act, stressing that those who choose crime over hard work must face the full wrath of the law.

“He is known as Fela in the community. He is lazy and prefers drinking and bad company to honest work. What has happened today is a lesson to others who think kidnapping is a shortcut to wealth,” Kingsley stated.

The Councilor representing the ward, Hon. Uchenna Jideofor, also praised the governor’s firm stance against kidnapping, describing the demolition as a welcome development that would restore peace in the area.

“This suspect has been a recurring problem in the community. Some people once facilitated his release from prison, and each time he returns, insecurity increases. But today’s action will serve as a clear warning that the era of impunity is over,” he noted.

The demolition, which drew the attention of residents and community leaders, has been widely praised as another decisive move by the Mbah-led administration in its ongoing mission to make Enugu the safest and most secure state in Nigeria.