CITIZENS COMPASS– Gunmen have abducted a bride-to-be, Uzoamaka Joseph Aliu, and shot dead her 27-year-old brother, Chibueze Franklin Joseph, a few hours before her wedding in Abia State.
The incident occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, in the Osisioma area of Aba.
It was learnt that Chibueze had traveled from Owerri to attend the wedding and was with her on their way to the church when the attack occurred.
According to security expert Zagazola Makama, the attack occurred when the vehicle carrying the siblings was intercepted by armed men. Eyewitnesses said the gunmen shot Chibueze in the left side of his neck and then pushed him out of the car. They drove off with the bride, Uzoamaka, in a black Toyota Sequoia SUV. The vehicle’s registration number has not yet been identified.
Chibueze was later found lying in a pool of blood. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead. His body has been taken to Alanwendu Mortuary in Osisioma for preservation and autopsy.
Family sources say Chibueze was very excited about his sister’s big day. He had taken personal responsibility for helping with the wedding plans and logistics.
Following the incident, a large search operation has been launched. The police, local security volunteers, and members of the community are all involved in efforts to find Uzoamaka and bring her back safely.
—Zagazola Makama
