The Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on the Inspector General of Police to intervene in the search for Obasi Lawson, the association’s Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman, who was abducted by gunmen in Abia State.
Lawson, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Sobaz Group of Companies, was kidnapped on Tuesday evening in Azumini community, Abia State.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Wednesday, Joseph Obele, PETROAN’s national public relations officer, disclosed that the abduction occurred around 7 pm when gunmen ambushed the SUV conveying Lawson.
The attack claimed the lives of the driver, Mr. Anayo Ukwu, and Lawson’s special assistant, Mazi Confidence Chijioke, who was also the vice chairman of PETROAN’s Rivers State chapter.
“The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at around 7 pm. The assailants ambushed Chief Obasi Lawson’s vehicle, killing Mr. Anayo Ukwu and Mazi Confidence Chijioke. Unfortunately, the three policemen accompanying them escaped,” Obele said.
The association expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chijioke, describing him as a dedicated member and key figure in the organization.
“Mazi Confidence Chijioke was a highly respected member of PETROAN, serving as the vice chairman of the Rivers State chapter and managing director of Dozzman Filling Stations.
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His death is a huge loss, especially as he was preparing to commission a multi-million naira filling station in Port Harcourt,” Obele added.
PETROAN’s national president, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, while addressing newsmen, condoled with Chijioke’s family, calling the loss “one injury too much to bear.”
The association has raised questions regarding the escape of the three policemen who were assigned to protect Lawson during the attack.
“PETROAN is appealing to the Inspector General of Police to launch an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape of the policemen and to ensure the swift rescue of Chief Obasi Lawson,” Obele stated.
The association also extended its condolences to the families of the victims and the leadership of PETROAN in Rivers State, led by Francis Dimkpa.
As the search for Lawson continues, PETROAN remains hopeful for his safe return while urging security agencies to leave no stone unturned in their efforts.