Copyright thenationonlineng
A family member of Mr. John Udodiri Duru, who was abducted weeks ago in Imo State, has raised alarm over the continued silence of his captors, saying all efforts to secure his release have failed. Mrs. Chinyere Ezeala, a relative of the victim, told reporters that Duru was kidnapped on Saturday, September 13, 2025, while on his way to church along the Okigwe–Owerri Road. Witnesses said armed men intercepted him, forced him into their vehicle, and fled the scene. According to Ezeala, the abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for his release, but negotiations hit a dead end after the kidnappers suddenly cut off communication. “Negotiations were ongoing when communication with the kidnappers was abruptly cut off, and all efforts to re-establish contact have since failed. The kidnappers later sent a threatening message warning that any attempt to involve security agencies or delay payment would lead to his death. His whereabouts remain unknown,” she said. She said the case was reported at the Divisional Police Station in Orji under the Imo State Police Command, adding that there has been no update on Duru’s condition. Security experts have called on the government at all levels to nip in the bud the growing wave of abductions across Imo and other parts of Nigeria. In the Southeast, residents also continue to endure a weekly “sit-at-home” lockdown enforced by unidentified armed groups, a situation that has crippled economic, educational, and commercial activities in the region.
