Fear in Enugu: 13 People, Including Children, Abducted by Armed Men in Nsukka

Tension has gripped the Ibagwa Agu community in Nsukka, Enugu State, following the shocking abduction of at least 13 people, including a father and two children, by suspected kidnappers.

The incident, which happened on Saturday, 12th April 2025, was brought to light days later by Enugu broadcaster Chijinkem Ugwuanyi, who shared the news on Facebook.

The victims were reportedly taken along a road connecting Ibagwa-Ani and Agu Ibagwa, a route that’s now raising serious security concerns.

One of those abducted is Maurice Osmond, a man who had returned to his hometown with his young son for school-related matters. They were on their way to visit family when they were intercepted and taken.

“According to their people, some are covering their faces while some aren’t. Those ones covering their faces are insiders while those who are not covering their faces are pure Fulanis,” Ugwuanyi shared.

N10 Million Ransom Demanded

Family members of the victims say the abductors are demanding ₦10 million per person. Meanwhile, the silence from official sources has deepened anxiety in the area.

What’s even more troubling is that locals say the fear runs so deep, community leaders are hesitant to speak out, worried that the attackers may be monitoring public posts online.

“Who is who from Ibagwa Ani community and Nsukka local govt have refused to write about it since Saturday because they are afraid that most of these kidnappers are also online too and on Facebook reading and following up,” Ugwuanyi added.

Escalating Fear in Enugu North

Residents of the Enugu North Senatorial District, especially around Nsukka, are calling for urgent government intervention. Many believe that criminal activity has gone unchecked in rural parts of the region, making people feel unsafe even in their own villages.

As families wait anxiously for updates, the larger question remains: How long can communities live in fear before action is taken?