Enugu: Bodies of Easter Kidnap Victims Found Decomposing in Bush

Tensions are rising in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State after the decomposing bodies of two men abducted on Easter Monday were discovered in a bush along the Adani-Opanda Road. The victims, identified as Ejike Ngana, a popular driver in Nsukka town, and Emma Ezenweze, were both natives of Nimbo community. They were reportedly abducted by suspected herdsmen while traveling the route.

Local Neighbourhood Watch operatives, joined by community youths, found the remains during a search and rescue mission on Wednesday. According to sources, the abductors had earlier released the women who were kidnapped alongside the men, prompting concern and speculation over the motive behind the targeted killings.

The discovery has reignited fears in Nimbo, a community still haunted by a 2016 massacre where at least nine people were killed by suspected herdsmen. Residents are calling for urgent intervention and heightened security as insecurity deepens in boundary areas of Enugu State.

In a related incident, two of eight individuals kidnapped in Ohebe Orba, Udenu Local Government Area, have regained their freedom after ransom payments were made. One victim, known locally as Big Head, was released on Holy Saturday after paying N5 million. Another, Ogochukwu Agboeze, returned home on Easter Day following a similar community-funded ransom.

However, a traditional priestess remains in captivity along with individuals she was reportedly escorting for a ritual at the time of the kidnapping. This development has left the Ohebe Orba community in fear, with locals appealing to authorities for swift and decisive action to rescue the remaining hostages and prevent future attacks.

Enugu State has faced a string of kidnapping incidents in recent months. On March 24, suspected kidnappers attacked travelers along the Ugwogo-Neke-Ikem Road, killing two people and abducting others. In response, police have ramped up operations across the state, including a recent raid on the infamous “Malaysian Forest”—a known hideout for kidnappers—where officers discovered a shallow grave containing human remains.