The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Chief Obasi Lawson, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria. He was kidnapped by gunmen in Azumini, Abia State.
In a statement on Friday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the incident happened on March 4, 2025, around 7:00 p.m. She explained that armed men in a dark blue Sienna intercepted Lawson’s convoy while he was traveling to Port Harcourt through Azumini Ndoki in Ukwa East Local Government Area.
The gunmen opened fire, prompting a response from security officers.
However, another group of attackers managed to seize Chief Lawson, forcing him into their vehicle before fleeing. His driver and one other person were killed during the attack.
Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, visited the scene with the Deputy Commissioner of Operations and other officers.
He urged residents to remain calm and alert, assuring them that security patrols had been intensified.
The police have asked the public to report any suspicious individuals with gunshot wounds or sightings of the dark blue Sienna to the nearest station or emergency helpline.
Tactical teams have been deployed to track down the kidnappers, with authorities committed to ensuring Chief Lawson’s safe return.