On the evening of Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Azumini community in Abia State was the scene of a tragic incident involving the abduction of Chief Obasi Lawson, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN). During the ambush, Lawson’s driver, Mr. Anayo Ukwu, and his Special Assistant, Mazi Confidence Chijioke, were fatally shot. The assailants intercepted Lawson’s vehicle, leading to his abduction and the immediate deaths of his companions.​

Details of the Attack

The attack occurred around 7 p.m. as Chief Lawson’s SUV was ambushed in the Azumini community. According to a statement by PETROAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Joseph Obele, the gunmen targeted the vehicle, resulting in the deaths of Ukwu and Chijioke. Notably, three policemen assigned to Lawson reportedly escaped during the incident.​

Victims’ Profiles

• Mazi Confidence Chijioke: Serving as the Vice Chairman of PETROAN’s Rivers State Chapter, Chijioke was also the Managing Director of Dozzman Filling Stations. His leadership and contributions to the association were widely recognized.​

• Mr. Anayo Ukwu: Details about Ukwu’s tenure and background remain limited, but his role as Chief Lawson’s driver underscores his trusted position within the team.​

PETROAN’s Response

The association expressed profound grief over the incident. In his statement, Obele highlighted the loss of Chijioke as significant, especially considering his impending inauguration of a multimillion-naira filling station in Port Harcourt. He also called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, particularly the actions of the three policemen who were present but reportedly fled.​

Security Concerns and Call to Action

This incident has raised alarm within PETROAN and the broader community about the safety of association members and the effectiveness of security protocols. Obele’s appeal to the Inspector General emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation and swift action to ensure the safe return of Chief Lawson and to address the broader security implications of such attacks.​

Current Status

As of the latest reports, Chief Obasi Lawson’s whereabouts remain unknown. The lack of communication from the abductors has heightened concerns, prompting calls for intensified search and rescue operations.​

Community and Industry Impact

The abduction of a high-profile industry leader like Chief Lawson has sent shockwaves through the petroleum retail sector. Such incidents not only threaten individual safety but also have broader implications for business operations and investor confidence in the region.​

Conclusion

The tragic events in Azumini highlight the pressing need for enhanced security measures and prompt investigative actions. The loss of lives and the abduction of a key industry figure underscore the challenges faced in ensuring safety and security in the region. The collective hope remains for the safe return of Chief Lawson and justice for the victims.