Enugu Government Rescues Girl from Ritualist’s Dungeon, Offers Full Rehabilitation and Scholarship
Enugu State has stepped in to rescue and rehabilitate Ukamaka Okonkwo, a young girl freed from a suspected ritualist’s dungeon.
Governor Peter Mbah has ordered therapy, relocation, and awarded her a full scholarship, vowing justice for all victims of the horrifying incident in Ezeagu.
The Enugu State Government has taken swift action to ensure the recovery and future wellbeing of Miss Ukamaka Okonkwo, the young girl who was rescued from a suspected ritualist’s dungeon in Ndiagu Umumba, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area. Miss Okonkwo had been held captive by Obi Levi Obieze, an alleged ritualist and kidnapper, whose hideout was recently uncovered by security operatives.
Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, revealed on Sunday that Governor Peter Mbah has personally intervened in the case. In response to the traumatic ordeal suffered by Ukamaka, the governor has ordered that she be relocated to a secure government facility in Enugu where she will undergo comprehensive therapy and rehabilitation.
Mrs. Enih, who led a government delegation to meet with Ukamaka’s parents in Ndiagu Umumba, explained that the move was necessary to support her psychological healing and help her reintegrate into society. “You can only imagine the horrors this young girl has gone through,” Enih said. “The government is determined to make sure she recovers fully and quickly. She is currently in the care of the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, where trained professionals will provide her with psychological support, therapy, and counselling.”
In a gesture that underscores the government’s commitment to her long-term wellbeing, Governor Mbah has awarded Ukamaka a full educational scholarship. The scholarship will cover her academic journey from her current educational level through to university graduation. “This is more than just aid it is a commitment to her future,” Enih stressed. “The Governor wants her to know she’s not alone, and her dreams are still valid.”
The commissioner described Ukamaka as a “destined child” whose life will be rebuilt with dignity and care. “We want to reassure her parents and the people of Enugu that this government stands for compassion and justice,” she added.
In addition to caring for the rescued girl, the state government has extended its sympathy to the bereaved family of Chimaobi Ezih, the young boy who was reportedly murdered in the same incident. A government delegation visited the parents, Mr. Theophilus and Mrs. Chinenye Ezih, at Agba Umana, also in Ezeagu LGA, to console them over the heartbreaking loss. “We deeply share in their grief and pain,” Enih said.
The government is also working to identify a pregnant woman whose body was discovered lifeless in the same dungeon. Her identity remains unknown, but efforts are underway to trace her family and give her a dignified remembrance. Mrs. Enih emphasized that the government and security agencies are pursuing all leads and remain determined to bring every suspect to justice.
“This administration has zero tolerance for such horrific crimes,” she stated. “The building associated with these atrocities has already been demolished in line with Enugu State’s existing laws. Those still on the run will be hunted down, arrested, and prosecuted. This is the only way to honor the lives lost and ensure public safety.”
Among those on the official delegation were Hon. Nkiru Ugwuagu, the Deputy Chairman of Ezeagu LGA, and Mrs. Clementina Ogbu, Head of the Child Department under the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development. Their presence underscored the government’s collective commitment to justice, healing, and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
