Gunmen Abduct Bride-To-Be Hours To Wedding In Abia

Armed assailants have murdered a 27-year-old man and kidnapped his sister, Uzoamaka Joseph Aliu, mere hours before her wedding in Abia State.

The tragedy unfolded around 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, in Osisioma, Aba. The victim, Chibueze Franklin Joseph, had journeyed from Owerri to participate in the ceremony and was escorting his sister to the church.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama verified the incident on Sunday. According to witnesses, the vehicle transporting the siblings was ambushed by gunmen who shot Chibueze in the left side of the neck and then shoved him out of the car before escaping with the bride in a black Toyota Sequoia SUV. The vehicle’s registration number remains unidentified.

Chibueze was later discovered in a pool of blood and declared dead after efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful. His body has been placed at Alanwendu Mortuary in Osisioma for preservation and autopsy.

Sources close to the family reveal that Chibueze had been thrilled about his sister’s wedding, set for the next day, and had taken on responsibilities to assist with logistics and preparations.

In response to the tragedy, an extensive search operation has been initiated, involving police, local security volunteers, and community members, to find Uzoamaka and secure her safe return.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli