**Traditional Ruler and Community Leader Abducted in Ehime Mbano**

Gunmen have reportedly kidnapped the traditional regent of Ezeala Owerre, HRH Pascal Nwagbake, along with a community leader, Hon. Kenneth Nwachukwu, in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

The abduction took place at Aba Branch, Ehime Mbano, with both individuals taken last week. According to sources close to the situation, the traditional leader was kidnapped at his residence on the night of Thursday, February 20, 2025.

Witnesses reported that the assailants fired gunshots into the air before forcibly taking him to an undisclosed location. As of now, the kidnappers have not made any demands for ransom.

Expressing deep concern over the incident, the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ehime Mbano Branch, Comr. G.O. Chidera, condemned the act and appealed for the safe release of the abducted individuals.

"As a community, we are deeply troubled about the well-being of HRH Pascal Nwagbake and Hon. Kenneth Nwachukwu. We earnestly appeal to those responsible to release them unharmed," the statement read.

The council also voiced concerns regarding the victims' health, emphasizing that the abducted leaders might not be receiving necessary medical attention.

Chidera further lamented recent tragedies in the community, stating, "We are still mourning the loss of three of our brothers in Umueze 1, who were killed in Anambra State. This latest incident adds to our distress. We urge the kidnappers to release them alive and unharmed."

The Ehime Mbano NYCN has called upon the Local Government Chairman, the Local Government Security Network, the Imo State Government, and the state police command to take immediate action to secure the safe release of HRH Pascal Nwagbake and Hon. Kenneth Nwachukwu.

Additionally, the council appeals to the public to provide any relevant information that may assist in their rescue.

Chidera reaffirmed the council’s commitment to ensuring their safe return while advocating for improved security measures to protect all members of the community.