By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A young man identified as Chigbo “Agudo” has been rescued in Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, after being held in chains by his father for nearly four years.
The shocking discovery was made at the weekend when concerned youths of Etiti Village stormed the father’s compound following suspicions that his son, who had not been seen in years, was secretly being confined.
On arrival, the youths broke into a yam barn where they found Chigbo in a frail state, chained and padlocked. Witnesses said the father, a native doctor in the community, had long told neighbours that his only son had travelled abroad, a story that concealed the young man’s ordeal.
A viral video of the rescue shows the moment villagers struggled to cut through the rusted chains and padlocks with oil and a saw. The visibly weak victim revealed that he had been confined since July 3, 2021, deprived of adequate food and freedom, and often gagged to keep him silent.
Police spokesperson in Anambra State, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the Command was aware of the incident and had opened an investigation. He added that the victim was receiving medical care, while officers were working to establish the motive behind the act and the role of other family members.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the community youths for their vigilance and assured that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
“This is a case of gross human rights abuse, and the Command will ensure justice is served,” he said.
The Merit Newspaper reports that residents of Igboukwu have expressed shock at the incident, describing it as one of the most disturbing cases of abuse in recent years. Local leaders have urged greater vigilance in communities to prevent such acts of cruelty from going unnoticed.
READ ALSO:Tinubu Arrives in Brazil for State Visit, to Seal Bilateral Deals
As at press time, the father remains under police investigation, while the rescued victim is said to be gradually recovering from years of neglect.
