The Coordinator of Oshiri Development Centre in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Hon. Agu Opu Odefa, has petitioned the Commissioner of Police following what he described as a violent assassination attempt on his life by suspected cultists.
In a petition dated September 29, 2025, and signed by his lawyer, Barr. S.U. Ununu, Odefa narrated how, on the night of Saturday, September 27, around 10 p.m., a group of armed men launched a deadly attack on him at Panna Hotels, Oshiri.
According to the petition, the assailants, who are currently at large, attempted to kidnap Odefa and force him onto one of their motorcycles. When he resisted, they allegedly inflicted multiple machete and axe cuts on him before he narrowly escaped.
The development centre coordinator sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. His official vehicle, valued at ₦70 million, was also destroyed during the attack.
Barrister Ununu further alleged that the suspects openly threatened to kill and kidnap Odefa, describing the incident as a coordinated act of violence
“Our client, who narrowly escaped with his life, is still in hospital receiving treatment,” the petition read in part.
The legal team is demanding that police authorities arrest and prosecute the suspects for conspiracy, attempted kidnap and murder, armed robbery, cultism, and malicious damage to government property.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ebonyi State Police Command was yet to issue an official response.
