In a tragic incident that has shocked the nation, the Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Agha Mba, and his wife, Chizoba, were kidnapped by gunmen on Friday, August 16, 2024. The couple was traveling through Ubiaja in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State, en route to Abuja to attend a wedding. Their trip took a horrific turn when their vehicle was ambushed by unknown gunmen, resulting in the tragic death of their aide, A.B Affiah.

The commissioner and his wife were reportedly on their way to attend the wedding of Adaora, the daughter of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, when they were taken by the attackers. The exact motive behind the abduction remains unclear, but it has raised concerns over the growing insecurity in the region.

Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the kidnapping and the killing of the aide. He stated that the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, is fully informed and has escalated the case to ensure every possible resource is used to rescue the couple.

While the police have yet to disclose further details on the whereabouts of the commissioner and his wife or the steps being taken for their release, efforts are underway to investigate the situation and apprehend those responsible for the crime.

This unfortunate event highlights the continuing threat posed by criminals in Nigeria and the need for strengthened security measures to protect citizens, particularly public figures. The abduction of a government official and the murder of an aide underscore the importance of ensuring safety in even the most routine of travel situations.

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Patrick Agha Mba, Chizoba, and the late A.B Affiah as authorities work towards a resolution.