The Enugu State Government has demolished a bungalow in Umueze Awkunanaw, Nkanu West Local Government Area, identified as a kidnappers’ den operated by prime suspect Igwenagu Ogbodo and his gang. The demolition, carried out on Tuesday in line with state laws, followed a security raid earlier in the week that rescued a kidnap victim from the property. Ogbodo and several accomplices, reportedly injured by gunfire, escaped during the operation, which also recovered the victim’s vehicle, arms, and ammunition.
Nkanu West LGA Chairman, Hon. John Ogbodo, commended Governor Peter Mbah’s resolve to combat insecurity, stating, “This demolition aligns with the governor’s promise to tear down any house used for criminal activities like kidnapping. It’s a warning to others—there’s no hiding place for criminals in Enugu.” He noted this was the first such demolition in Nkanu West but not the state’s first, crediting advanced technology and manpower deployed by the government. Ogbodo urged community leaders to monitor suspicious activities and property owners to vet tenants carefully, warning that any property linked to criminality faces demolition.
Local voices echoed support for the action. Ikechukwu Amos, a community elder, identified Ogbodo as an ex-convict known for associating with criminals and engaging in illicit activities like drug use. “We advised him, but he didn’t listen. This is the consequence,” Amos said. Ward councilor Uchenna Jideofor called the demolition a “welcome development,” noting Ogbodo’s history of crime, including a prior arrest during his tenure, though he was later released by community members. Edeh Chidera Kingsley, another resident, added, “Those who choose kidnapping over honest work should face the consequences.”
The Enugu State Government remains confident in its ability to apprehend the fugitive Ogbodo, with ongoing efforts to track him and his accomplices.
