The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abuja branch, has released details of how its former secretary, Chris Agidy, was killed by his kidnappers.
In an announcement of his death to members, the Publicity Secretary of the branch, Mr. Michael Awo Ejeh, wrote:
“Dear Learned Silks, Elders and members of the branch. It is with a heavy heart that we announce the death of the past Secretary of the branch, Chris Agidyi Esq, who was killed by his kidnappers while in captivity.
“Recall that Musa Isiaka, Esq. the Secretary of the branch issued several statements about the efforts being made by the branch working with his immediate family and the Police to find him.
“The branch worked effectively with the Nigeria Police to get to the end of their investigations. As you know, until the Police concluded their investigations, it was impossible for us as a branch to act on speculations about his death.
“It is in this light that that the Chairman of the Branch, Afam O. Okeke, Esq. AICMC appointed Michael Awo Ejeh, the Publicity Secretary and Emmanuel I. Utomi, the Provost to work with the Police FCT Command throughout the process of Investigations, arrest of the kidnappers and the recovery of the remains of our late and fallen member.
“On Monday 19th of February 2024, the Publicity Secretary and Provost were drafted to the Anti-Kidnapping Section of the Police to interview the Kidnappers and get information about the kidnap of Chris Agidy, they were formally informed that he was killed by them, while on their way to their camp. The branch officer worked with the Police in eliciting information from the suspects. In all the stages of investigations, the branch worked in collaborations with Mrs Agidy and some members of her family.
“Also, on the 23rd of February 2024, the branch Officers held a physical meeting with the Commissioner of Police, FCT, Mr. Bennett Igweh, at 10:20 am and in attendance were the FCT PPRO and several officers of the Nigeria Police who were involved in the investigation of the case. Mrs. Agidy, her father and the two children were also in attendance. At the meeting, the Publicity Secretary spoke on behalf of the Chairman insisting that justice must be done and the corpse must be properly identified and released to the family for a decent burial. He informed the CP of the worries of members of the branch about their personal security and the general security of the FCT.
“At this meeting, the Commissioner of Police informed the NBA Abuja Officers that several of the kidnappers have been arrested and those on the run would be arrested and prosecuted. The CP also said that all efforts were being made to recover the remains of Chris Agidy, Esq through the credible information provided by the suspects who were in Police custody.
“According to the CP, his men were in the bush combing the kidnappers camps around the kuje area of the FCT Abuja.
“The CP also said that this crime was committed before he was appointed as CP but that since he assumed office, he has cleaned up the FCT of kidnappers by personally taking the fight to their camps.
“He assured us that the criminals will face justice and promised to do his part in supporting the children of the slain Lawyer.
“He assured the NBA that he is doing everything to make FCT safe for all.
“The branch also were fully working with the Police to identify the remains and recover them. The Police assured the branch officers that medical and forensic experts were deployed to identify the corpse. The branch was also informed yesterday 26th February 2024 when the remains of the fallen former Secretary were recovered.
“We will continue to work with his wife and family until the funeral date is announced.
“The branch wants to use this moment to request us to please keep him and his family in your prayers. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”
