Successful Rescue Operation
Following two weeks of intensive investigation and a collaborative effort between the FCT Police Command and the Rivers State Command, the missing 4-year-old boy, Hope Evans, has been rescued in Abuja. The abductor, identified as Blessing Okoi, had changed the child’s name to David Evans in an attempt to conceal his identity.
Timeline of Events
FCT Police Commissioner, CP Olatunji Disu, who personally led the rescue operation, revealed details of the abduction and recovery. On October 31, 2024, the suspect lured Hope Evans away from the Model Community Nursery and Primary School, Azubie, Port Harcourt, by offering him biscuits and eggs. When the boy’s mother, Lydia Jonah Gabriel, arrived at the school to pick him up, she was informed by school officials that an unknown woman, later identified as Blessing Okoi, had taken him at approximately 1:28 pm.
Realizing her son was missing, Lydia, along with family members, sought information from the school and learned that the suspect was locally known as “Destiny’s mum” since her child attended the same school. Upon visiting the residence of Destiny, they discovered that the suspect had fled the premises that same night. Several students confirmed her identity, prompting the family to report the incident to the Trans Amadi Police Station. The case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Investigation and Arrest
Suspecting the abductor had escaped to Abuja, the victim’s aunt reported the case to the FCT Police Command. Acting on Commissioner Disu’s directive, the police tracked the suspect to Maraba, Abuja. On November 29, 2024, at approximately 8 pm, Blessing Okoi was arrested, and Hope Evans was rescued after more than two months in captivity.
During questioning, Okoi initially claimed to be Hope’s biological mother and referred to him as “David Evans.” However, her account was inconsistent with information provided by Lydia Jonah Gabriel, who confirmed her son’s identity and provided recent photographs as evidence. The suspect later admitted to changing the boy’s name and confessed to deceiving her former lover into believing the child was his. She claimed the boy was from a previous relationship and said her partner had accepted him as his own.
Further complicating the case, the suspect was found with another young boy, whom she claimed was her son, stating that his father had passed away.
Emotional Reunion
On December 6, 2024, Lydia Jonah Gabriel arrived in Abuja and was reunited with her son in an emotional meeting at the office of the FCT Commissioner of Police. The reunion ended two long months of anguish and separation.
Commissioner’s Advice and Commendation
CP Olatunji Disu advised school proprietors to prioritize the safety of children under their care and implement stricter security measures. He commended his officers for their dedication and thorough investigation, which led to the successful rescue of Hope Evans.
Gratitude from Hope’s Mother
In her remarks, Lydia Jonah Gabriel expressed deep gratitude to the FCT Police Commissioner and his team. “Since this incident happened, I have not been able to sleep. My husband has been restless and even accused me of giving our son to my parents to sell, out of frustration. But I thank God the police have found my son, and I am vindicated,” she said.
Legal Proceedings
As of now, Blessing Okoi remains in police custody, undergoing further interrogation. She is expected to face charges in court for her actions. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and security in protecting vulnerable children from abduction and harm.
