Operatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have arrested a popular Enugu-based native doctor, Levi Obieze, also known as ‘E de play, e de show’, who is wanted in connection with multiple heinous crimes including abduction, kidnapping, and ritual killings.
The arrest was confirmed on Thursday by the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, via a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi. The statement, titled ‘Nigeria Immigration Service Confirms Arrest of Notorious Crime Suspect, Obi Levi Obieze’, revealed that Obieze was apprehended at the Gbaji checkpoint along the Badagry-Seme Road in Lagos State.
“Through credible intelligence, Obi Levi Obieze was apprehended by vigilant men of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Border Patrol Command, at Gbaji checkpoint along Badagry-Seme Road while attempting to flee the country on a motorcycle,” the NIS stated.
Obieze, a resident of Umuojor village in the Isiagu Community, Enugu State, is alleged to have played a central role in the recent abduction of a 13-year-old girl and is believed to be linked to the gruesome deaths of two pregnant women whose decomposing bodies were discovered in his compound earlier this week.
The incident that sparked public outrage began on Monday when community members discovered the corpses of the two women inside soakaway pits at Obieze’s residence. The grim find came just days after a teenage girl was abducted while walking with her father to their farm. According to eyewitness reports, the abductors feigned a motorcycle breakdown to trick the girl’s father, before one of them seized the child and fled on the motorcycle.
The girl was eventually rescued during a joint operation by local vigilantes and police officers after residents reported hearing distress screams from a nearby bush close to Obieze’s compound. The native doctor allegedly attempted to prevent the search but was overpowered. A further search of the compound led to the shocking discovery of the bodies, sparking anger and fear across the community.
In a video now circulating on social media, enraged community members were seen dragging and parading Obieze naked, condemning his actions. Known for his flamboyant public persona, Obieze was famous for spraying money at events and living a lavish lifestyle. He had reportedly fled his home along with his four wives prior to his capture.
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The NIS confirmed that Obieze was in possession of a National Identity Management Commission enrollment slip, which helped verify his identity. He has reportedly confessed to the crimes during preliminary questioning.
“He is currently in custody, and his identity has been confirmed… During initial questioning, he admitted to the alleged crimes,” Akinlabi said.
The Immigration Service reaffirmed its commitment to border security and announced that it is coordinating with the Nigeria Police Force to facilitate Obieze’s formal handover for continued investigation and prosecution.
The Enugu State Police Command has yet to release an official statement on the development, but sources indicate that Obieze will be transferred to the state in the coming days to face charges.
Residents and rights groups are calling for a thorough investigation and swift justice for the victims, warning that ritual-related crimes are on the rise in some rural communities.
More updates to follow.