Chief Obasi Lawson, a prominent oil businessman and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria, has regained his freedom after spending nearly a month in captivity. He was kidnapped on March 4, 2025, in Azunmiri, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, while returning to Port Harcourt after visiting his hometown in Arochukwu.
His convoy was attacked by armed men who opened fire, killing his driver and one of his security escorts. The attackers then forced Chief Lawson into their vehicle and took him to an unknown location.
The Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, confirmed his release during a press briefing in Umuahia. He said Lawson was rescued alive two days ago and is in good health. However, he declined to provide further details about the rescue operation due to security reasons.
In response to the incident, the Abia State Government issued a warning to traditional rulers and community leaders, cautioning them against harboring criminals. The government stressed that anyone found protecting or aiding criminals in their communities would face strict consequences. Authorities urged residents to report any suspicious activity and emphasized the need for increased vigilance.
Prince Kanu also mentioned that the state would begin monitoring traditional rulers more closely to ensure they are not collaborating with criminal elements. He encouraged community leaders to take their responsibility of maintaining peace and security seriously.
During the briefing, Kanu also spoke on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting. He revealed that five road projects completed through direct labor would soon be inaugurated. These include the 19.5-kilometer Umuahia–Bende Road (phases 1 and 2), the 1.76-kilometer Igbere Junction to Onu Roundabout, the 2.5-kilometer Umuokogbuo Road, the 8.3-kilometer Isieketa–Obikabia Road in Isiala Ngwa South, and the Obehie–Ezendioma Road in Ukwa West.
He noted that the Umuahia–Bende Road, a federal road, had outlived its usefulness and is no longer economical to maintain. While the state has recommended a complete reconstruction, Kanu said discussions with federal authorities are needed before any action can be taken.
The Commissioner also gave updates on the ongoing Umuahia Urban Renewal Project, aimed at transforming the state capital into a modern city. He said the reconstruction and expansion of key roads, including Library Avenue and Akanu Ibiam Road leading to FMC Junction, were progressing well and would soon be completed. Other parts of the capital, such as bus terminals and bus shelters, are also under development.
Kanu added that registration for commercial vehicles is still ongoing across the state, and he urged operators to comply, warning that enforcement of the directive would begin soon.
The media briefing was attended by several top officials, including the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; the General Manager of Umuahia Capital Development Authority, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha.
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