0
0
The Anambra State Police Command has responded to growing concerns over reports circulating on social media about five missing travelers who were en route from Lagos to Uyo, Akwa Ibom, for a wedding.
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu raised the alarm on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, via Facebook, where he shared photos and details of the individuals—identified as Aliu Idayat Opeyemi, Anifowose Promise, Femi Aniyeloye, Alex, and another Femi. According to Gwamnishu, the group departed Lagos and made a stopover in Anambra State, where they reportedly planned to spend the night before continuing their journey the next day.
In his post, Gwamnishu wrote:
“They left Shimawa, Lagos yesterday. Around 7:00 p.m., they called to say they had reached Asaba and were looking for somewhere to eat. After that, they resumed their journey and got to Anambra. They decided to rest for the night at a hotel and continue traveling in the morning. The last contact was at 10:00 p.m., when they sounded tired and ready to rest.
Around 6:16 a.m. today, one of them updated his WhatsApp status, wishing his wife a happy birthday—that was the last communication from any of them. Since then, all five phones have been unreachable. At about 10:30 a.m., one of the phones rang multiple times but was not answered, and later it was switched off. We’ve contacted Anambra Police, but there’s been no word yet.”
He added that the group consisted of four male friends and the groom’s sister, and they were due to attend the wedding the following day.
In a statement released Thursday, May 22, 2025, the Anambra State Police Command addressed the situation. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that the Command had intercepted the social media report and called for cooperation from the families and the public.
“The Anambra State Police Command intercepted a social media publication stating that five persons traveling through Anambra in search of accommodation have gone missing,” the statement read.
“We are joining the publisher in calling for any useful information that could assist the Police and other security agencies in taking swift action. So far, there has been no formal report of this incident at any Police Division or Formation in the State. We urge the relatives of the missing individuals to report directly to the Police Headquarters to provide further details.”
SP Ikenga emphasized that the Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu, remains committed to public safety and frequently reviews its security strategies to address emerging threats.
“Our recent security assessments show that residents are increasingly committed to helping law enforcement tackle criminal activity that disrupts peace and economic activity, particularly on Mondays,” Ikenga said.
He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity or security-related concerns, adding that the Police can be reached via the hotline 07039194332. Additionally, the ‘NPF Rescue Me’ app is available for free on Android and iOS devices to facilitate rapid emergency response.
