High Court Judge and Driver Kidnapped in Akwa Ibom State
Gunmen reportedly abducted Justice Joy Uwanna, a high court judge, and her driver in Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State on Monday. Tragically, the judge’s orderly was killed during the attack, which took place along the Uyo-Okobo road.
Confirming the incident on Tuesday, Toroscho Eyene, Chairman of the Oron branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), revealed that Justice Uwanna was abducted while returning to Uyo after a court session. In response to the abduction, the NBA has scheduled a meeting with the State Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durusinmi, and the Department of State Services (DSS) in Uyo on Wednesday.
Eyene stated, “Yes, the sitting Judge in Oron was kidnapped yesterday (Monday) on her way back to Uyo after a court sitting. By tomorrow, Wednesday, we are moving down to Uyo to meet with the Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durusinmi and the DSS on the issue.”
Efforts to reach the Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, Odiko Macdon, for comments on the situation were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
The abduction of Justice Uwanna and the tragic death of her orderly have raised concerns about the security situation in Akwa Ibom State. Kidnappings for ransom have become a prevalent issue in Nigeria, with high-profile individuals often targeted.
The abduction of a high court judge highlights the brazenness of criminal elements in the region and the need for enhanced security measures to protect citizens and public officials. The NBA’s planned meeting with law enforcement agencies underscores the urgency of addressing the security challenges facing the state.
Source: Daily Post
