Geraldine Anyiam, Woman Leader of Ohuhu Community in Abia State, has issued a stern warning to kidnappers following the abduction of farmer Oyinyechi Ekechukwu and a tricycle operator who was conveying her home from the farm before both victims were rescued by local vigilantes and community youths.
Anyiam spoke during an interview on Arise News, on Wednesday, 17 June, 2026, where she reacted to the incident and commended the swift response of community members who mobilised to rescue the victims. She also reaffirmed the resolve of residents to resist criminal elements operating within the area.
Delivering a strong message to the perpetrators, Anyiam said, “The message I’m sending to them is that they should not even near Umuagbaniocha community or Ohuhu as a whole because we cannot condone their rubbish.”
She stressed that the successful rescue of the victims demonstrated the determination of the people of Ohuhu to defend their communities against criminal activities. According to her, residents, traditional leaders, youths and vigilante groups have resolved to remain vigilant and work together to prevent further attacks.
The woman leader noted that the kidnapping of Ekechukwu and the tricycle operator had caused fear among residents, particularly farmers and commuters who depend on rural roads and farm routes for their daily activities. However, she said the rescue operation had strengthened the community’s confidence in its ability to respond collectively to security threats.
Anyiam urged security agencies to sustain efforts to rid forests and other hideouts of criminal gangs, while calling on neighbouring communities to strengthen intelligence sharing and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
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