ESUT Alumni president, son abducted by gunmen in Enugu state

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have struck in Enugu State, abducting Dr. Obi Ilo, President of the Enugu chapter of the Alumni Association of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), and his son, Kamsy.

The abduction occurred on Sunday at Nvene near Four Corners Junction while the victims were returning from Nachi in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Confirming the abduction, ESUT alumnus Dr. Maxwell Ngene condemned the act as “cruel and inhumane,” especially considering that Ilo recently lost his wife and her corpse is still at the Eastern Nigeria Hospital Enugu.

The kidnappers are demanding a ransom of 20 million naira for their release. In a distressing phone call, Dr. Ilo was heard crying and pleading for help.

Efforts are underway to secure their safe release, with appeals made to security agencies, the government, and the public for assistance.

Ngene in a statement issued on Monday, stated, “We are deeply concerned and shocked to announce the kidnapping of Dr. Obi Ilo, the President of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), and his son Kamsy Ilo, a Computer Science student of ESUT.

“This heinous act occurred yesterday at Nvene near Four Corners Junction, as they were returning from Nachi in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

“Tragically, Dr. Ilo recently lost his wife, and her corpse is still at the Eastern Nigeria Hospital Enugu. This senseless act of violence has added to the family’s already unimaginable grief.

“The kidnappers, who have shown no regard for human life, are demanding a ransom of 20 million naira. In a distressing phone call, Dr. Ilo was heard crying and pleading for help, urging colleagues, friends, and brothers to be contacted.

“We condemn this cruel and inhumane act in the strongest possible terms. We appeal to the security agencies and the government to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Dr. Ilo and his son.

“We also call on the public to provide any information that may lead to the rescue of the victims.

“Let us come together to support the Ilo family during this difficult time and work towards ensuring their safe return.”

A family source who spoke on condition of anonymity also confirmed the abduction, saying, “This morning met us with the kidnapping of our own Dr Obi Ilo (Onwa Nachi ) and his son Kamsi along Nneve just before 4 Corner Junction on his way from village around 5pm yesterday.

“So far the kidnappers have contacted the family and made a demand of 50m to release father and son. They have been calling and asking for money as I type. I was called by the mediator. Time is of the essence and help most needed.

“His car has been recovered and with the authority.”

Despite efforts to reach the police for comment, no response was received at the time of filing this report.