Obi Raises Alarm Over Rising Cases of Missing Persons in Anambra

A human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of missing persons in Anambra State. Speaking at a press conference in Awka, Obi decried the growing trend of people mysteriously disappearing without a trace, while life in the state continues as if nothing has happened.

He highlighted the cases of three notable individuals—prominent businessman Mr. Benjamin Ezemma, House of Assembly member Hon. Justice Azuka, and 2021 Labour Party governorship candidate Mr. Obiora Agbasimalo—who all went missing at different times and have yet to be found.

Obi particularly emphasized the disappearance of Mr. Benjamin Ezemma, also known as Big Ben, who vanished on November 12. As the Vice Chairman of Dubai Estate, Ezemma’s sudden absence has raised serious concerns. The activist urged the government to act swiftly, warning that if such incidents continue unchecked, anyone could become a victim.

He questioned the effectiveness of national identification systems, such as SIM and NIN registration, in tracking missing persons. He called on security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to utilize available technology to trace Ezemma’s whereabouts. Obi suggested monitoring the businessman’s call records to identify potential leads and understand his last known interactions.

The activist also revealed that some individuals suspected of having dealings with Ezemma have been taken to court. He urged journalists to actively cover the case to prevent it from being ignored or forgotten.

While he commended the DSS in Anambra for its commitment to the case, Obi strongly criticized the state police command for what he described as incompetence. He lamented that Anambra has become a posting ground for police officers nearing retirement who are more focused on personal gain than maintaining security.

Obi warned that if the situation persists, activists may have no choice but to organize protests to demand greater accountability from law enforcement agencies.