Jamflash News Report – Imo State
Senator Athan Nneji Achonu, the Labour Party Governorship candidate in the 2023 Imo State election, has openly condemned the abduction of Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, a former lawmaker from the state. Ogbu was kidnapped in Okigwe at a particularly tragic time—while preparing for his late mother’s burial, whose body remains in the mortuary.
Calling the act “a direct assault on Igbo values, culture, and humanity,” Senator Achonu stressed the urgency of Ogbu’s release, urging the kidnappers to show respect for the dignity of life and the sanctity of motherhood.
A Call for Compassion
In his reaction, Senator Achonu emphasized that no true Igbo or Biafran should engage in kidnapping or terrorizing their own people.
“Any son of Igbo land who engages in kidnapping and robbery brings shame to his family and community. Such individuals must be exposed and rejected because that is not who we are,” he stated.
He appealed directly to those holding Hon. Ogbu:
“This is a man whose aged mother lies in the mortuary awaiting burial. Please, release him immediately so he can lay her to rest with dignity.”
Challenging Misplaced Anger
Senator Achonu questioned the logic of targeting innocent citizens rather than addressing grievances with the government directly.
“If there are grievances against government, let them be channelled through legitimate means. What sense does it make to torment ordinary citizens while government leaders live in Abuja and often run off to London or Paris? Is this the society we want to build?”
Loss of Cultural Respect
He also lamented what he described as the erosion of cultural values and respect for motherhood.
“Have we truly lost respect for motherhood, for the dead, and for our ancestors? In the name of God Almighty and the spirits of our forefathers, I plead: let Hon. Ngozi Ogbu return home to his family and bury his mother.”
A Call for Security Reforms
Beyond the immediate appeal, Senator Achonu called for a comprehensive overhaul of security in Imo State. He stressed the importance of strengthening local intelligence, empowering community policing, and holding public officials accountable.
“The time has come to move beyond empty rhetoric. Our people deserve safety, dignity, and peace. Both the Federal and State Governments, together with traditional institutions, must build a security system that truly protects citizens,” he urged.
Upholding Igbo Identity
Closing his remarks, Senator Achonu anchored his appeal on Igbo cultural wisdom:
“E jiri mara Igbo bụ nkwado na nkwanye ùgwù—what defines us is solidarity and respect. Let us not betray our own identity by turning against ourselves.”
