Anambra: Abducted businessman killed despite ransom payment

A wave of grief has swept through Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State following the killing of popular businessman, Ifesinachi Onyekere, widely known as “Fish Magnet,” by unidentified gunmen.

Onyekere, believed to be the son of an All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) chieftain, was abducted late Saturday night from his residence in Ezinifite, Okpuno.

Eyewitnesses said the armed assailants arrived in an ash-coloured SUV, forcibly entered his compound, shot him in the leg, and whisked him away in his own vehicle.

The source said, “The attackers arrived in an ash-coloured Lexus SUV at about 10:30pm, forced their way into the compound, and fled the scene in the victim’s navy blue Toyota Corolla after shooting him on his leg.

“The assailants escaped through bush paths towards Nawfia, while firing gunshots into the air, thereby triggering panic in the area.

“Local volunteers and security watch groups who were contacted have launched a search effort, while authorities are working to trace the victim’s phone and make contact with the kidnappers.”

“He was in captivity for three days until a ransom was paid, but instead of setting him free, they ended his life. He was later found lifeless by the roadside this morning. He was young, hardworking, full of promise, known for his passion and thriving fish business”, the source said.

When contacted on the development, the state Spokesman for the state Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, adding that joint security operatives have recovered the victim’s vehicle, which the assailants used to escape the scene.

Ikenga said, “The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed all tactical and intelligence units to redouble their efforts in tracking down the armed men responsible for the abduction and subsequent killing of Ifesinachi Onyekere, the Managing Director of Fish Magnet Outlet, who was attacked in the evening of July 27, 2025, at his residence in Ezinifite village, Okpuno, Awka.

“This directive follows the recovery of the victim’s navy blue Toyota Corolla, along Ukwulu/Igbariam road by the Joint Security Team comprising of Anambra Vigilante

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the assailants had trailed the victim before launching the violent attack, during which the deceased was shot in the leg and forcibly taken away.

“He was later found lifeless, sparking public outrage and deep concern among residents of Awka.”

According to Ikenga, the CP, while condemning the killing, assured that the criminal elements behind this cowardly act will be brought to book.

“He further stated that the Police owe it to the family, the people of Anambra, and the memory of the deceased to ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the Law. Further developments would be communicated accordingly,” he added.