A 27-year-old man, Chibueze Franklin Joseph, was shot dead, and his sister, Uzoamaka Joseph Aliu, abducted by gunmen just hours before her wedding in Abia State. The disturbing incident took place at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, in the Osisioma area of Aba.
According to eyewitness accounts, the siblings were en route to a church in preparation for Uzoamaka’s wedding scheduled for the following day. Chibueze had reportedly travelled from Owerri to support his sister with last-minute arrangements for the ceremony. Tragically, their vehicle was ambushed by armed men who intercepted them and violently disrupted their journey.
Security expert Zagazola Makama, who confirmed the incident on Sunday, explained that the gunmen opened fire on the vehicle, fatally shooting Chibueze in the neck. He was then pushed out of the car while the assailants sped off with Uzoamaka in a black Toyota Sequoia SUV. The registration number of the vehicle remains unknown at this time.
Chibueze was later found bleeding profusely and unresponsive. Despite attempts to save him, he was confirmed dead, and his remains have since been deposited at Alanwendu Mortuary in Osisioma for preservation and further examination.
Family sources described Chibueze as being full of excitement and joy ahead of his sister’s wedding. He had eagerly taken on responsibilities related to the wedding logistics, hoping to ensure that the day would be memorable for Uzoamaka.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, security agencies, local vigilante groups, and concerned community members have launched an intensive search operation to locate Uzoamaka and secure her safe release. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The chilling incident has left the local community in shock and mourning, casting a dark shadow over what was meant to be a joyful celebration.