By Seun Adams
One Jude Obinna Odirih, an indigene of Akwu-ukwu in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, has recounted the alleged persecution, torture, and attacks suffered by him and his family following a street march held on 23 November 2018.
According to reports, Mr. Odirih stated that he was abducted on 25 November 2018 at approximately 7:45 p.m. by security operatives and taken to the former SARS detention facility in Awkuzu, Anambra State. He alleged that while in detention he was subjected to severe torture and brutal assaults, resulting in loss of consciousness. He further claimed that he was later dumped in a shallow grave where, upon regaining consciousness, he discovered other lifeless bodies nearby. According to his account, local villagers eventually rescued him and rushed him to a medical clinic for urgent treatment.
Mr. Odirih further alleged that after returning to Lagos, where he resided with his family, the threats and intimidation against them continued.
He stated that on 3 February 2019, armed men suspected to be security operatives invaded his residence located on Akinremi Street, Anifowoshe, Ikeja, Lagos. During the incident, Mr. Odirih reportedly escaped, while his wife and children were allegedly assaulted, intimidated, and interrogated concerning his whereabouts.
In another reported incident dated 22 June 2019, witnesses alleged that armed operatives dressed in camouflage stormed Mr. Odirih’s workshop located at No. 19 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos. The operatives were said to have demanded that Mr. Jude Obinna Odirih be produced “dead or alive” while ransacking the premises and destroying property within the workshop.
Sources further claimed that the same operatives later proceeded to his residence in the Akinwowo area, where similar destruction allegedly occurred.
As of the time of this report, the whereabouts of Mr. Odirih remain publicly unknown, although his wife reportedly stated that he is currently outside the country.
Speaking further, his wife expressed deep fear for her safety and that of their children, stating that since the attack of 3 February 2019, the family has continued to live in fear, trauma, and psychological distress due to repeated threats and intimidation. She reportedly stated that she has contemplated leaving the marriage in an effort to protect her life and the lives of the children.