The President General of notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, Amb Comrade Emeni Ibe (JP AP), has strongly condemned the disturbing and unfortunate abduction of an energetic youth, Mr. Richard Ogidi.
While reacting to the sad development, Amb Ibe said, “We received with deep pain, shock and profound sadness the news of the abduction of our dear son and brother, Richard Ogidi, who was taken away by unknown gunmen in the odd hours of 23rd April, 2026, and whose whereabouts remain unknown till this moment”.
“We strongly condemn this disturbing and unfortunate incident in the strongest terms possible. This is not just an attack on one young man, it is an attack on the peace, security and collective conscience of our youths.
It is painful that our youths, who should be nurtured as the strength and future of our land, are becoming victims of insecurity and violence.”
“Richard Ogidi is not just a name in our community, he is a productive, committed and service-driven young man whose contributions to the growth and development of the Society have been visible and impactful. His dedication to community progress and youth development has earned him respect among many.
It is heartbreaking that a young man with such promise and value is today missing under these circumstances.”
“We call on all security agencies to rise swiftly and decisively to this challenge. There is an urgent need to beef up the protection of lives and properties across our communities. Our youths cannot keep disappearing. We cannot continue to lose our young people in this painful and unacceptable manner.”
“First, it was Ifeanyi Azuazu, and now Richard Ogidi. This trend must not become a norm in the area Enough is enough.”
“I urge all security agencies to intensify efforts and ensure the immediate and safe release of Richard Ogidi. Every available machinery of intelligence and law enforcement should be deployed to secure his freedom and return him unharmed to his family, loved ones and the entire Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni and Orashi people.”
“We also use this opportunity to caution strongly against youths being used against their fellow youths. We must reject every attempt to turn brothers against brothers. Our youths should not be instruments in the destabilization of their own communities. We cannot keep losing our future through violence, conspiracy and senseless criminality.
This is a time for unity and collective resolve.”
“We call on leaders of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area in particular and Orashi region in general to rise together with the youths, traditional institutions, community stakeholders and security agencies to put a permanent stop to these disturbing incidents. We must act together before this menace grows beyond control.”
“To whoever is holding Richard Ogidi, I make a heartfelt appeal, please release him unharmed. Let him return safely to his family and community. Let humanity prevail over cruelty. Let compassion speak louder than violence.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Richard Ogidi and his family at this difficult time.”
“We remain hopeful, prayerful and resolute that he will return safe and alive. May peace and security return to our land” the ONC PG, Amb Ibe concluded.