Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Nigeria Police, Enugu State Command, says it has arrested an 18-year-old, Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, for allegedly kidnapping and murdering his five-year-old cousin, Obodoagu Wisdom.
According to the police, his accomplice, Sunday Michael (male, aged 24), a security guard at 9th Mile and a native of Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa State, was also arrested.
The police said that the suspects were apprehended on August 11 and 12, 2025, by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad, following intelligence gathered after ransom demands were reported.
The deceased was first reported missing on July 26, 2025, but investigation revealed that the prime suspect used his accomplice to demand ₦1,000,000 ransom from the victim’s father in an attempt to disguise his identity.
A statement by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said that when the ransom was not met, the suspect murdered the child and buried him in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Ndukwe said: “During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crime. The prime suspect thereafter led operatives to the scene, where the victim’s body was exhumed in the presence of medical personnel, including a doctor, who certified the child dead.”
He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Bitrus Giwa, has commiserated with the bereaved family and assured the public that the suspects would be arraigned upon conclusion of investigations.
“The Commissioner has reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to detecting heinous crimes and ensuring justice in the state,” Ndukwe stated.
