Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, a prominent academic from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, escaped captivity after being abducted along the notorious Opi-Nsukka-Ugwogo-Nike Road. His escape, confirmed by Enugu State Police, brings both relief and shock to a community that has grown anxious over increasing kidnappings in the area.
Professor Ujam, who serves as Dean of the School of General Studies at the university, was reportedly kidnapped on Sunday morning while traveling. His abduction sent shockwaves through Nsukka and surrounding communities, raising questions about security measures on a road that locals consider dangerous due to frequent incidents of violent crime.
The escape took place on the night of Monday, October 28, during a high-stakes operation by police forces. The professor managed to break free as law enforcement engaged in a heated gun battle with his kidnappers. Following the encounter, police reported the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, two magazines loaded with 22 rounds, and a belt with 39 rounds of live ammunition, indicating that the kidnappers had been armed and prepared for a confrontation.
According to Enugu State police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, Professor Ujam’s escape highlights both his courage and the intensity of the police operation. “The professor’s escape was a courageous act, but it also points to the grave security challenges we face,” Ndukwe remarked. He went on to assure the public that the police are taking steps to curb such incidents along the highway.
The professor’s ordeal underscores growing concerns about the alarming trend of kidnappings in Enugu State, especially on the Opi-Nsukka-Ugwogo-Nike Road. This route, connecting several major towns and cities, has become infamous for its lack of safety despite regular police checkpoints. The professor’s escape has drawn attention to the inadequacies in security and prompted calls for stronger measures.
The Opi-Nsukka-Ugwogo-Nike Road, which was once a bustling route for commuters, traders, and students, has become a hotbed of crime. Over recent months, there have been several reports of kidnappings and armed robberies, with locals expressing frustration over the state’s response. Travelers on this route live in fear of becoming the next target, with many residents forced to reconsider their travel plans due to safety concerns.
Just hours before Professor Ujam’s abduction, another incident was reported involving an official of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Emeason Chima, who was also allegedly kidnapped on the same road. However, police spokesperson Ndukwe denied this, sparking debate among residents and raising concerns about the transparency of reporting such incidents.
This rising trend in kidnappings has intensified pressure on local authorities to find effective solutions. Community members are calling for more advanced security technologies, increased police presence, and rapid response teams to handle emergencies along the highway. Some have expressed frustration over what they see as slow responses from the police, given the repeated incidents in this high-risk area.
The alarming frequency of kidnappings prompted Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, to announce the deployment of additional personnel along the troubled corridor. Commissioner Uzuegbu emphasized that security forces are committed to protecting citizens and tackling the criminal networks behind these kidnappings.
However, some residents believe that deploying additional personnel is a temporary solution to a deeper problem. “These kidnappers know the terrain well, and they can evade checkpoints easily,” said Chidi Eze, a local trader. “We need a lasting solution, not just more patrols.”
Despite the Commissioner’s reassurances, some remain skeptical, as similar measures in the past have failed to bring a lasting end to kidnappings. The Enugu State government is also being urged to consider modern surveillance technologies like drones and to improve intelligence sharing between security agencies to ensure swift and effective responses.
The news of Professor Ujam’s escape has brought mixed emotions to the community. While people are overjoyed that he managed to break free from his captors, the incident has left them unsettled. On social media, residents and supporters of the professor shared their relief and admiration for his bravery.
“Thank God for Professor Ujam’s life!” tweeted Chudi Chidume, who spoke with the professor after his escape. “God shall continue to protect him and all of us here.”
Others expressed frustration with the authorities, questioning how kidnappings continue along a road with such a heavy police presence. “With all the checkpoints, how is this still happening?” asked another local, Tee, on Twitter. “It’s just unacceptable that anyone can be taken so easily.”