Safeguard your children – gov. Otti charge parents as police rescue 3 kidnapped siblings | Read Details
Safeguard your children – gov. Otti charge parents as police rescue 3 kidnapped siblings | Read Details
The governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti has advised parents to diligently discharge their responsibility of safeguarding their children and not make room for avoidable child thefts.
The governor gave this charge in his father’s day message shared via his official Facebook handle after receiving three siblings rescued from kidnappers.
Otti wrote;
“Today, being Father’s Day, I am reminded of the profound responsibility we hold as parents and guardians. I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on the successful rescue of three little kids: Gideon, Divine, and Israel, who were abducted last month in Amaba, Ikwuano L.G.A while returning home from school. Their safe return underscores our collective resolve to protect the most vulnerable among us.
To the parents, I urge you to take seriously your sacred duty of safeguarding your children, as this situation was avoidable. There is no task more crucial than ensuring the well-being of your children.
I commend the bravery and dedication of our security operatives and community leaders who worked tirelessly for the children’s release. Your efforts embody the strength and unity of Abia State.
I assure you that our administration remains steadfast in its mission to secure our state and foster an environment where every child can thrive in safety.
Happy Father’s Day to all who are nurturing and guiding our next generation.”
The three siblings were on May 10 kidnapped by an unknown motorcycle rider hired by their grandmother to take them to their home after they visited her.”
Following police intervention, one of the children, Obioma was rescued on May 21 at Ekwulobia in Anambra State, and Gideon was rescued at Nkpor in Anambra State on May 23, while Israel was rescued in Warri, Delta State, on June 13.
A statement by the Abia State police command’s spokesperson, ASP Maureen Chinaka, said the rescue mission led to the arrest of five suspects, including a Reverend Sister.
The statement added that during the period of investigation and rescue efforts which lasted from May 10 to June 13, four female suspects and one male suspect were arrested in connection with the crime.
The statement read, “On May 10, 2024, the Abia State Police Command received a report that three male children, namely: Gideon Osinachi (eight years old), Obioma Divine Osinachi (six years old), and Israel Osinachi (four years old), were abducted by an unknown cyclist from Amoba Okoro village in Ikwuanno LGA of Abia State.
“The children were taken away by the cyclist who was hired by their grandmother to take them to their home after the children had visited her.”
“We are happy to announce that all three children have been rescued and reunited with their family.
“The suspects were arrested variously at Amawbia and Nkpor in Anambra State, as well as Warri in Delta State. They include Reverend Sister Pauline Alozie (female), Chizoba DJ (female), Glory Umuna (female), Mrs. Georgina Nonye Okoye (female), and Philip Ibe (male). They are in custody and will be charged to court very soon.”
See photos of governor Otti receiving the children and their parents:
