The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of former lawmaker representing Okigwe State Constituency, Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, who was abducted by armed men and held captive for several days.

Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that Ogbu was freed on Wednesday night.

“The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, the former legislator who represented Okigwe State Constituency. He was released yesterday night. The Command is working in synergy with other security agencies to make sure his abductors are apprehended and brought to book,” Okoye said.

He assured residents that the command remained committed to enhancing peace and security across the state.

Naijaonpoint reports that before his release, a disturbing video of Ogbu in captivity went viral on social media.

In the footage, the visibly distressed former lawmaker pleaded with the government to withdraw security operatives from Okigwe, particularly from the “White House” security base, which his abductors claimed was their target.

The masked and heavily armed captors, suspected to be members of IPOB/ESN, threatened to kill him within four days if their demands were not met.

Ogbu, who was seized on September 7, 2025, in Onuimo Local Government Area, appeared visibly shaken in the clip, sparking widespread public outrage and calls for urgent government intervention.

While details of the rescue operation remain sketchy, the police stressed that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the gang responsible.

Security sources said the case highlights the continued threats posed by criminal groups in parts of the South-East, even as authorities intensify counter-insurgency operations.

Residents of Okigwe have expressed relief at Ogbu’s safe return, describing the incident as a stark reminder of the security challenges in the region. Community leaders urged security agencies to sustain operations to deter further attacks and abductions.

“The rescue of Hon. Ogbu is commendable, but it must not end here. His abductors must be found and prosecuted to send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated,” one resident said.