Enugu Government Commends Arrest of Notorious Suspect, Demolishes His Properties in Compliance with Anti-Kidnapping Law

The Enugu State Government has formally reacted to the arrest of the notorious fugitive, Obi Levi Obieze, a man widely described as a suspected ritualist and kidnapping kingpin. The suspect was apprehended by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) along the Badagry-Seme expressway while attempting to flee the country on a commercial motorcycle. His capture comes after weeks of evasion, drawing commendation from various quarters, including the Enugu State authorities.

In a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, on Friday, May 30, the administration hailed the swift and professional actions of the NIS officers. According to the statement, the arrest marks a significant milestone in the fight against criminality and serves as a warning to others who believe they can evade justice.

“This arrest has further reinforced our commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators of heinous crimes such as kidnapping, ritual killings, and abductions are made to face the full wrath of the law,” Onyia declared.

In a decisive follow-up action, the government revealed that it had already demolished Obieze’s multi-million-naira mansions in his hometown of Umumba Ndiagu, Ezeagu Local Government Area. The demolition took place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in strict adherence to Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State. This section empowers the government to confiscate and demolish properties linked to individuals found guilty or reasonably suspected of involvement in kidnapping and related crimes.

“This action is in line with our state’s laws and underlines our zero-tolerance stance toward criminality,” Onyia reiterated. He emphasized that such steps are necessary to dismantle the infrastructure that enables and supports violent criminal enterprises.

The government’s swift demolition of Obieze’s properties reflects a broader policy direction that seeks to eliminate safe havens for criminal elements and make it increasingly difficult for them to thrive within the state.

The statement also praised the role of local community members, traditional institutions, and the state’s security network including the Neighborhood Watch and other grassroots organizations for their vigilance and support in identifying and isolating dangerous elements from their communities. The government urged community leaders, town union presidents, and residents not to shield criminal suspects under any circumstances. According to Onyia, anyone found aiding or covering up for such criminals will also be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted accordingly.

“This administration remains fully committed to restoring safety and peace to all parts of Enugu State,” Onyia stated. “We call on all stakeholders community leaders, vigilantes, and citizens to remain alert and partner with government and security agencies in ridding our communities of crime.”

Obieze’s arrest has sent shockwaves across the region, especially given previous reports linking him to a series of ritual-related kidnappings and murders. His name has been associated with underground criminal networks, and residents had long feared his influence and operations. With his arrest and the demolition of his known assets, the government hopes to not only cripple his operations but also send a strong message to others engaged in similar activities.

The Enugu State Government’s firm response to the incident reflects a growing resolve among Nigerian state governments to adopt proactive measures against crime. In the face of rising insecurity across parts of the country, this case may serve as a benchmark for how coordinated security and judicial actions can tackle notorious criminals and safeguard communities.

As investigations continue and the legal process unfolds, citizens await further updates on Obieze’s prosecution and any potential revelations that may emerge from his arrest. Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government has reaffirmed its stance: criminality will not be tolerated, and anyone found culpable will be brought to justice without exception.