PETROAN Chairman Kidnapped in Abia, Driver and Another Person Killed

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Chief Obasi Lawson, has been kidnapped by gunmen in Abia State.

The abduction happened since Tuesday, March 4, 2025, around 7 PM in Azumini Ndoki, Ukwa East Local Government Area. Chief Lawson was on his way to Port Harcourt when armed men ambushed his convoy.

The Abia State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement on Friday. Police spokesperson Maureen Chinaka explained that a dark blue Sienna vehicle, carrying unidentified gunmen, blocked the road and opened fire.

“While the officers were repelling the attack, another set of gunmen forcefully took Chief Lawson, ordered him into their vehicle, and took him to an unknown destination, leaving his driver and one other person dead,” she said.

Following the incident, Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, visited the scene with the Deputy Commissioner of Operations and other security teams. He urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activity.

Security forces have launched a search operation to track down the kidnappers and rescue Chief Lawson. Police tactical teams are patrolling the area, while authorities have asked the public to report anyone with gunshot wounds or sightings of the dark blue Sienna vehicle.

The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility.

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