A US-based Nigerian investor, Mrs. Onyinye Urum Ukaegbu Ibe, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, seeking protection after locals in Abiriba, Abia State, allegedly threatened to burn down her multi-million naira piggery and cassava farm.
According to the petition filed by her lawyer, Obasi Awa, the threat emerged following the death of an employee, Joseph Urum, on February 24, 2025. The worker, a close family member recruited in January 2025, fell ill at work and later died after undergoing surgery. Unsubstantiated rumors circulated that his co-workers had murdered him, sparking outrage among his relations and certain community members.
The petition alleges that prominent locals—named Oko Ukaegbu, Pastor Ejemole Ukaegbu, Maduka, and Bassey—were arrested and are under investigation following complaints made to the Abiriba Police Division. Mrs. Ibe’s petition calls for a thorough investigation into the true cause of Joseph’s death, while also demanding police reinforcement around her farm to thwart potential arson attacks by enraged community members.
Speaking from her US base via telephone, Mrs. Ibe emphasized that she established the farm to support her community and empower local residents economically. She vehemently dismissed accusations circulating on community platforms, which absurdly claimed that she had attempted to harvest the deceased’s kidney for her son—a claim she described as a “baseless fabrication” by enemies of progress.
The paramount traditional ruler of Abiriba’s ancient kingdom, HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogbu (Enachoken Abiriba), confirmed the incident and stated that local leaders had intervened to safeguard the farm using traditional measures. “We tied the place with palm fronds to prevent mobs from burning it down while the police investigate,” he said, adding that the matter had been referred to the State Criminal Investigation Department.
Efforts to obtain a comment from the Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Moureen Chilaka, were unsuccessful as calls and text messages went unanswered.
The investor’s petition underscores the urgent need for enhanced security and a transparent investigation to ensure that her investment—and the livelihoods it supports—are protected from further unrest driven by misinformation and local tensions.
