Tragedy in Nimo: Anambra Grieves as Respected Chief Ezedinachi Is Murdered by Kidnappers After Ransom Payment

 

Tension and heartbreak have gripped the quiet town of Nimo in Anambra State following the brutal killing of Chief Augustine Ezedinachi, a revered community leader, by suspected kidnappers. The respected elder, widely known by his chieftaincy title "Ogbuefi Ozo Nnanyelugo" and fondly referred to as High Chief Gbafankiti na Nimo, was found lifeless on the same farmland from which he was abducted, despite a reported ransom payment of N15 million.

The horrifying incident unfolded on June 19, 2025, when masked gunmen invaded Chief Ezedinachi’s farm located behind St. Michael’s Secondary School in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses recounted how the armed men emerged suddenly, seizing the elderly man at gunpoint and taking him away without resistance. The atmosphere was filled with fear, and the community watched in disbelief as one of its most respected figures was driven into the unknown.

The victim, a retired contractor with Chevron Nigeria Limited, had returned to his hometown after decades of dedicated service in the oil industry. Rather than enjoy a quiet retirement, he immersed himself in agriculture, setting up a thriving farm and livestock project that had become a model of community-based enterprise.

Family members were plunged into a nightmare after receiving a call from the kidnappers, who used Chief Ezedinachi’s own mobile phone to demand ransom. Though the exact amount requested was initially undisclosed, close sources later confirmed that the family was forced to raise N15 million in hopes of securing his release. Every effort was made to comply with the abductors' demands in the hope of bringing the elder home safely.

Sadly, hope turned to sorrow when the lifeless body of the traditional titleholder was discovered on his own farmland days later. Witnesses who first came upon the scene described a horrific sight. The body bore multiple machete wounds to the head, suggesting a violent and intentional killing. Locals gathered in shock, mourning not just the death of a man, but the gruesome end he met at the hands of his captors.

Community leaders, relatives, and members of the Nimo Royal Cabinet have expressed outrage and devastation over the killing. High Chief Ezedinachi was known for his humility, wisdom, and commitment to community development. His role within the traditional cabinet was not only ceremonial but deeply impactful, as he served as a mediator, cultural custodian, and advocate for youth empowerment and local enterprise.

The police have reportedly launched an investigation into the abduction and murder. As of the time of this report, no arrests have been made, and the perpetrators remain at large. Authorities have called on anyone with information to come forward to assist in unraveling the identities of the criminals responsible for this heinous act.

Local security observers argue that the killing may reflect a disturbing pattern in Anambra and other parts of southeastern Nigeria, where kidnappings have grown more frequent and deadly. Despite ransom payments, victims are increasingly killed in cold blood, leaving communities in fear and frustration.

Relatives of the deceased are calling for justice and greater protection from state authorities. “We did everything we were asked to do. We just wanted our father back,” said a visibly heartbroken family member. “Now we’re left with pain and unanswered questions.”

The traditional ruler of Nimo and other prominent community heads are said to be convening emergency meetings to deliberate on the security situation and map out strategies to protect other members of the royal cabinet and community at large. Many residents have expressed deep concerns over the future of safety in the area, especially for retirees and elders who have returned to their homeland to live out their final years in peace.

Chief Ezedinachi’s legacy, according to his community, will not be forgotten. Tributes have poured in from across the region, celebrating a man described as kind-hearted, visionary, and deeply rooted in the values of his people.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days, with a likely high-profile burial that will draw dignitaries, traditional rulers, and well-wishers from far and wide. As the town mourns, calls for stronger security and accountability continue to echo throughout Anambra and beyond.