In a shocking development, the Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC), Prof. George Chima, has been kidnapped. The abduction occurred on Friday at his residence in Okigwe, Imo State, where he was hosting some guests. The incident has sparked widespread concern and condemnation, with security agencies launching a manhunt to rescue the abducted professor.
Details of the Kidnapping
According to a family source, Prof. Chima was hosting lecturers from Abia State University, Uturu, at his Okigwe residence when the kidnappers struck. The gunmen, suspected to be kidnappers and numbering about four, stormed the house, harassed the guests, and forcefully took the ABSIEC Chairman away.
The source, who spoke to FRONTPAGE on condition of anonymity, said, “Prof. Chima was with some of his colleagues from Abia State University when the kidnappers arrived. They harassed everyone in the house before taking him away. We are all in shock and praying for his safe return.”
Police Confirmation and Response
The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the incident and assured the public that efforts are underway to rescue Prof. Chima and apprehend the kidnappers. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, stated that the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has personally taken charge of the investigation.
“Yes, we are aware of the kidnap of the professor, and we have commenced investigations. As I speak to you now, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, personally led the team of police to Okigwe. The police are assuring all that we will catch the kidnappers,” Okoye said.
Prof. George Chima’s Role and Impact
Prof. George Chima, a respected academic and public servant, has been at the helm of ABSIEC, overseeing the conduct of local government elections in Abia State. His abduction has raised concerns about the safety of public officials and the growing spate of kidnappings in the South-East region.
Colleagues and associates of Prof. Chima have expressed shock and sadness over the incident. A lecturer at Abia State University, who preferred not to be named, described him as a dedicated and principled leader. “Prof. Chima is a man of integrity who has always put the interest of the people first. This is a very difficult time for all of us who know him,” the lecturer said.
Growing Concerns Over Insecurity in the South-East
The kidnapping of Prof. Chima is the latest in a series of abductions and security challenges in the South-East region. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative criminal enterprise, with victims ranging from ordinary citizens to high-profile individuals.
Security experts have called for a more robust approach to tackling the menace, including improved intelligence gathering, community policing, and collaboration among security agencies. According to a security analyst, “The South-East is becoming a hotspot for kidnappings, and this trend must be addressed urgently. The government and security agencies need to take decisive action to restore safety and confidence in the region.”
Reactions from Stakeholders
The abduction has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, civil society groups, and residents of Abia and Imo States. Many have called for swift action to ensure Prof. Chima’s safe release and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Abia State Government has also expressed concern over the incident. A government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “We are deeply worried about the safety of Prof. Chima and are working closely with security agencies to ensure his release. This is a sad reminder of the security challenges we face, and we are committed to addressing them.”
Appeal for Calm and Vigilance
As the search for Prof. Chima continues, authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant. The police have also called on anyone with useful information about the kidnappers or the whereabouts of the ABSIEC Chairman to come forward.
“We appeal to the public to provide any information that could aid in the rescue of Prof. Chima and the arrest of the kidnappers. Together, we can ensure that justice is served,” DSP Henry Okoye said.
Looking Ahead
The kidnapping of Prof. George Chima has once again highlighted the urgent need to address insecurity in the South-East. As security agencies intensify their efforts to rescue him, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by public officials and the importance of safeguarding their lives.
In the meantime, the thoughts and prayers of many are with Prof. Chima and his family during this difficult time. It is hoped that he will be rescued unharmed and that the perpetrators will be brought to justice swiftly.
Conclusion
The abduction of Prof. George Chima, Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission, is a distressing development that underscores the growing insecurity in the South-East region. As security agencies work tirelessly to secure his release, the incident calls for a renewed commitment to tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
The safety of public officials and citizens must remain a top priority, and all stakeholders must collaborate to restore peace and security in the region. Our thoughts are with Prof. Chima and his loved ones, and we join in the collective hope for his safe return.
