In a chilling discovery that has sent shockwaves through Enugu State, Nigeria, the Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three alleged accomplices of a notorious native doctor, High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu, popularly known as “Ezeani” and “E-Dey-Play-E-Dey-Show.” The arrests follow the gruesome unearthing of decomposing bodies buried in a concrete-sealed pit within the suspect’s compound in Umumba Ndiagu, Ezeagu Local Government Area. The operation, which unfolded in the early hours of May 27, 2025, also led to the dramatic rescue of a 13-year-old girl who narrowly escaped becoming the latest victim of suspected ritual killings.
The suspects, identified as Uche Kingsley Agumba (33), Ilo Nweze Onyedikachi (36), and Ejike Odinwankpa (38), were apprehended during a meticulously planned rescue operation at approximately 3:15 a.m. The operation was a collaborative effort involving the Enugu State Police, members of the local Neighbourhood Watch, and vigilant community members who had grown suspicious of the activities at Ezeani’s compound. The discovery of the bodies—believed to include a pregnant woman among other victims—has exposed a dark underbelly of ritualistic practices that authorities say were orchestrated for financial gain.
According to police reports, the decomposing bodies were found in a pit sealed with concrete, a grim attempt to conceal the heinous crimes. Preliminary investigations suggest that the victims were recently murdered, their deaths linked to ritualistic practices intended to bring wealth or power to the perpetrators. The rescued 13-year-old girl, whose identity has been withheld for her safety, was kidnapped and held captive in the compound, allegedly awaiting a similar fate. Her rescue has been hailed as a critical breakthrough, offering hope amidst the tragedy and providing investigators with a living witness to the horrors that unfolded.
The prime suspect, High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu, initially evaded capture, fleeing the scene before police could close in. However, his escape was short-lived. The Nigerian Immigration Service apprehended him while he attempted to cross a land border, a move that underscored the swift coordination between law enforcement agencies to bring him to justice. Ezeani, a self-proclaimed native doctor known for his flamboyant aliases, had reportedly built a reputation in the community, blending traditional practices with what authorities now describe as a sinister criminal enterprise.
The Enugu State Government has taken decisive action in response to the chilling discoveries. In accordance with state laws prohibiting such practices, the buildings on Ezeani’s compound—where the crimes were committed—have been demolished, erasing the physical remnants of the site where unimaginable horrors took place. This demolition serves as both a symbolic and practical measure to deter similar activities and signal the government’s zero-tolerance stance on ritualistic crimes.
Commissioner of Police Mamman Bitrus Giwa, who has been at the forefront of the investigation, commended the collaborative efforts of the police, Neighbourhood Watch, and community members. In a statement, he emphasized the police’s commitment to justice, saying, “This operation demonstrates our resolve to rid Enugu State of such barbaric acts. We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all those involved face the full weight of the law.” Giwa also issued a directive for an intensified manhunt to apprehend any remaining accomplices who may still be at large, signaling that the investigation is far from over.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and fear among residents of Umumba Ndiagu and beyond, raising questions about the persistence of ritual killings in modern Nigeria. Such practices, often tied to superstitions about wealth and power, have long plagued certain communities, exploiting vulnerable individuals and perpetuating cycles of violence. The inclusion of a pregnant woman among the victims has particularly horrified the public, highlighting the brutality of the perpetrators who spared no one in their pursuit of alleged supernatural gains.
The rescue of the 13-year-old girl has become a beacon of hope in this dark narrative. Her survival offers a rare glimpse into the resilience of victims and the importance of community vigilance. While details about her ordeal remain limited to protect her privacy, authorities have confirmed that she is receiving medical and psychological care to help her recover from the trauma. Her testimony is expected to play a crucial role in the ongoing investigation, potentially shedding light on the full scope of Ezeani’s operations and the network of accomplices involved.
This case also underscores the critical role of community involvement in combating crime. The alertness of local residents, coupled with the support of the Neighbourhood Watch, was instrumental in alerting authorities to suspicious activities at Ezeani’s compound. Their courage in coming forward has been praised as a model for how communities can work alongside law enforcement to root out criminal elements.
As the investigation continues, the Enugu State Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could lead to the discovery of similar crimes. The case has reignited discussions about the need for stronger measures to combat ritual killings, including public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and greater support for vulnerable populations who are often targeted by such schemes.
For now, the people of Umumba Ndiagu are left grappling with the aftermath of a tragedy that has shattered their sense of security. The arrests and the rescue of the young girl mark a significant step toward justice, but the scars of this horrific episode will linger. As the legal process unfolds, all eyes will be on Enugu State to see how authorities handle this high-profile case and whether it will serve as a turning point in the fight against ritualistic crimes in Nigeria.
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