James Iberibe
The paramount ruler of Arochukwu, Eze Oji, has called for prayers from indigenes of the town.
In a statement he personally signed titled, “A Call To Prayer For Arochukwu Kingdom” and made available to Newstellers on Wednesday, the Eze Aro said, “On March 4, 2025, a dark cloud descended upon Arochukwu Kingdom, bringing with it unimaginable sorrow and pain.
“We mourn the senseless attack and killing of our beloved sons, and we call for fervent prayers for the safe return of Mazi Obasi Lawson, who was kidnapped during the incident.
“We also pray for the repose of the soul of Mazi Chiedozie Confidence Chijioke and the other brave individuals who lost their lives in this tragic event. May God grant their families and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“As we navigate this difficult time, let us hold on to the promise of Psalm 34:17-18, which says, ‘The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.’
“In this moment of grief and uncertainty, we turn to prayer as our source of strength and comfort. We implore all Umu Aro to join us in prayers, seeking God’s mercy, favour, and protection. May our collective prayers bring us solace, healing, and the safe return of our beloved son, Mazi Obasi Lawson. May God bless and protect Arochukwu Kingdom.”
Our correspondent reports that the Atani community in Arochukwu is having a land conflict with its neighbouring Akwa Ibom communities and that conflict has been lingering for a long time, followed by a series of meetings and discussions between the conflicting communities in both states.
A place source revealed that on the 4th of March, the Ezeogo of Atani invited great sons of the Atani community to return home for a meeting.
Some indigenes of the town were said to have heeded the call and after the meeting, some decided to return to their base that same day, including Mazi Obasi Lawson, popularly known as SOBAZ
Mazi Lawson, on his way back to Port Harcourt, where he was based, was said to be with his Personal Assistant, Mazi Chiedozie Confidence Chijioke, and Nonye Ukwu was his driver.
“They were now heading back to Port Harcourt that 4th and ran into the attack. A Sienna car blocked them and rained bullets on Lawson’s car, killing the driver and the PA on the spot. While this was happening, another Sienna arrived and took Mazi Lawson away, and we have not been able to find him up to this moment”, the source said, adding that the attack happened around Azumini – Ndoki road in Ukwa East LGA of the state, which was described as a very lonely area.
When contacted for comment, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said “investigation is ongoing.”
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