The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping of billionaire businessman Chief Obasi Lawson and the murder of his driver and special assistant.
Reports indicate that unidentified gunmen ambushed Chief Lawson’s vehicle in Azumini, Abia State, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Lawson, the Board of Trustees Chairman of the Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) and owner of SOBAZ Oil and Gas, was abducted, while his driver, Anayo Ukwu, and his special assistant, Mazi Confidence Chijioke, were fatally shot.
According to PETROAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Joseph Obele, the gunmen intercepted the SUV and opened fire, killing both aides instantly. The three police escorts assigned to Lawson managed to escape.
Mazi Confidence Chijioke, who also served as PETROAN’s Rivers State Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Dozzman filling stations, was highly regarded within the association. PETROAN has urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate the surviving officers who were present during the attack.
Abia State Police spokesperson DSP Maureen Chinaka stated that an investigation is ongoing, confirming that the attack occurred at around 7 p.m. while Chief Lawson and his team were returning to Port Harcourt. Armed men in a dark blue Sienna intercepted the convoy, shot at them, and abducted the businessman.
Police tactical units have since been deployed to the area to track down the kidnappers and ensure Lawson’s safe return. The Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, has visited the crime scene and reassured residents of intensified security measures.
Authorities have urged the public to report any individuals with gunshot wounds or sightings of the suspect vehicle to the nearest police station or via emergency lines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.
