What was meant to be a solemn farewell turned into a day of horror and grief for the family of late Dr. Mrs. Virginia Nnenna Onyeka, as her burial on Thursday, July 18, 2025, was marred by a series of coordinated kidnappings and a shooting incident, underscoring the worsening security situation in Enugu State.
Dr. Mrs. Onyeka, a senior staff member of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), was laid to rest in her hometown, Ibite Okpatu, Udi Local Government Area. However, tragedy struck around 7 a.m., when her daughter and some in-laws were ambushed and abducted by unknown gunmen while on their way to retrieve her body from the mortuary. The attack occurred near the boundary between Okpatu and Awhum, a location that has now drawn attention for its security vulnerability.
The situation escalated later that same day when another group of mourners, returning from the burial ceremony, were also kidnapped at the same spot. One individual reportedly sustained a gunshot wound during the initial ambush and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital. As of the time of this report, no contact has been established with the abductors, and the whereabouts of the victims remain unknown.
This is no longer just a criminal act; it is a complete breakdown of security in our communities,” said a local elder who pleaded for anonymity. “If mourners can no longer bury their dead in peace, then nowhere is safe anymore.”
Dr. Mrs. Nnenna Onyeka was remembered as a dedicated educator and mentor, whose contributions to academia left a lasting impact. Her sudden death, followed by these traumatic events, has plunged her family and the academic community into mourning and uncertainty.
As investigations continue, the Enugu State Police Command is yet to issue a formal statement on the incidents. Families of the victims, meanwhile, are appealing to the public for prayers and to authorities for swift intervention.
