Abia oil magnate regains freedom after one month in kidnappers’ den

Obasi Lawson, the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has regained his freedom after spending one month in the kidnappers’ den.

Confirming the release of Lawson, the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu at a press conference in Umuahia on Thursday, April 3, said the oil magnate was released on Tuesday.

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Kanu explained that Lawson who was kidnapped at Azunmiri in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State was in good condition.

He said, “He was rescued alive about two days ago and he is hale and hearty.”

Lawson was kidnapped in Azumini after his convoy was ambushed by his abductors on March 4, 2025. His driver was shot dead during the attack while his security aide – a police officer – managed to escape.

Speaking further on the security situation in the state, Kanu warned traditional rulers and other leaders of various communities in the state to desist from habouring criminals in their areas.

He said the state government and security agencies would severely deal with anyone found wanting.