By Onyewuchi Ojinnaka
The death of Imo State Accountant General’s younger brother, Mr. Valentine Obiezu who was reportedly killed by kidnappers in his home town Akatta in Oru East Local Council of Imo State has been confirmed by the Imo State Police Command.
Valentine Obiezu, a millionaire oil worker, was reported to have been killed by kidnappers, who made an unsuccessful attempt to kidnap him in his village, Akatta in Oru East Council area of the state.
Confirming the killing of Valentine, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, Orlando Ikeokwu, said Obiezu had returned home for New Year celebrations when the sad incident occurred.
But sources from the deceased man’s village disclosed that Obiezu was driving in his Toyota Hilux vehicle along the Orlu-Mgbidi Road when the kidnappers accosted him.
“They did not even wait for him to stop and come down from his vehicle when they opened fire on the car. The kidnappers simply pushed him out of the vehicle and drove away with it”.
Criminals have been having a field day in recent times around Orlu, Orsu and Oru East axis, terrorizing the entire area without restraints.
A village source who pleaded anonymity said, “the situation has become frightening and worrisome. There is presently a stampede as all our prominent sons and daughters have gone into hiding. No politician or dignitary can ever go out freely now as that would amount to taking a big risk.
“I want to call on the state government, police and other relevant agencies and institutions to urgently rise up to the challenge before it deteriorates to a level where it will defy every solution in the long run.” the source said.