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In a significant development in the fight against crime and kidnapping in Nigeria, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Lagos State Command, has officially handed over a notorious crime suspect, Obi Levi Obieze, to the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution. This move marks a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to clamp down on violent crimes such as kidnapping and ritual killings that have plagued several communities, especially in the southeastern part of the country.
Arrest of Obi Levi Obieze: A Major Breakthrough
The arrest of Obi Levi Obieze is the result of diligent intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration between the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Lagos State Police. According to the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the handover took place at the Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos State.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) on Friday, May 30, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the development and provided updates on the ongoing investigation. He tweeted,
“ONGOING: @nigimmigration, Lagos State Command hands over wanted suspect, Obi Levi Obieze, to @LagosPoliceNG at the Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja.”
This public confirmation by the police highlights the transparency and seriousness with which law enforcement agencies are tackling crime syndicates, especially those involved in abduction and ritualistic activities.
Background of Obi Levi Obieze and the Allegations Against Him
Obi Levi Obieze is alleged to be a key suspect in a series of criminal activities, including kidnapping and ritual killings in Isiagu Community, located in Enugu State. These heinous crimes have caused widespread fear and insecurity among residents, prompting urgent action by the authorities.
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, also confirmed the arrest in an official statement released by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, ACI AS Akinlabi, on Thursday, May 29. The statement reads:
“The suspect is a male individual wanted by the Nigeria Police Enugu State Command for alleged involvement in abduction, kidnapping, and ritual killing.”
Such a confirmation from the highest levels of the Nigeria Immigration Service underscores the gravity of the case and the suspected involvement of Obi Levi Obieze in serious criminal offenses.
Details of the Crime and Rescue of Victim
Reports reveal that Obi Levi Obieze, who is described as a native doctor from Umuajor village in Enugu State, was allegedly involved in a kidnapping incident that occurred on May 27, 2025. According to eyewitness accounts, a 13-year-old girl was abducted while she was walking to the farm with her father in Isiagu Community.
The kidnapping sparked immediate concern and outrage in the community, leading to a swift response from security agencies. Thanks to the relentless efforts of the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Lagos State Police Command, the young girl was rescued alive from a shrine that was reportedly linked to Obi Levi Obieze. This rescue operation not only saved the girl’s life but also dismantled a critical part of the criminal network operating in the region.
Confirmation Through National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Enrollment Slip
A key factor that led to the successful arrest and identification of Obi Levi Obieze was the discovery of a National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment slip in his possession. This piece of evidence played a pivotal role in confirming his identity, enabling the Nigeria Immigration Service to act swiftly.
The use of the NIMC enrollment slip highlights the increasing importance of national identity systems in crime detection and investigation. It also reflects the commitment of Nigerian authorities to leveraging technology and official databases to combat crime effectively.
The Role of Nigeria Immigration Service in Crime Prevention
The involvement of the Nigeria Immigration Service in this case demonstrates the agency’s expanding role beyond border control and immigration regulation. The NIS is increasingly becoming a key player in national security operations, particularly in tracking and apprehending suspects who attempt to exploit border weaknesses or operate across state lines.
Under the leadership of Comptroller General Kemi Nandap, the Nigeria Immigration Service has intensified collaboration with other security agencies to tackle organized crime, human trafficking, and violent crimes such as kidnapping and ritual killings. The handover of Obi Levi Obieze to the Lagos State Police Command is a clear example of how these efforts are yielding tangible results.
What This Means for Security in Lagos and Nigeria
The arrest and transfer of Obi Levi Obieze send a strong message to criminal elements that the combined efforts of the Nigeria Immigration Service and the police will not tolerate lawlessness. It also reassures Nigerian citizens, especially in vulnerable communities, that the government is committed to ensuring their safety and security.
Experts believe that such successful operations will deter others from engaging in similar criminal activities. Furthermore, the cooperation between different arms of the security apparatus reflects a united front against crime and enhances the overall effectiveness of law enforcement.
Next Steps: Investigation and Prosecution
Now that Obi Levi Obieze is in the custody of the Lagos State Police Command, a thorough investigation will commence to uncover the full extent of his alleged crimes. The police will work to gather additional evidence, interrogate the suspect, and identify any accomplices.
As CSP Benjamin Hundeyin indicated, the case is ongoing, and more updates are expected as the investigation progresses. The ultimate goal is to bring all perpetrators involved in kidnapping and ritual killings to justice, ensuring that victims receive closure and that the rule of law prevails
