Gov. Otti Secures Freedom for Abia Citizen and Two Others After 26 Years on Death Row

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has facilitated the release of Mr. Ogbonnaya Igbojionu, an indigene of Ikwuano Local Government Area, and two other Nigerians, after spending 26 years in prison under a death sentence.

Mr. Igbojionu, a generator dealer, was arrested in 1999 and later sentenced to death in 2003 over allegations of purchasing a stolen generator. His case came to light through Simon Oshi, a concerned Nigerian from Enugu State, who discovered his plight via a social media post by influencer Olumide Ogunsanwo, popularly known as Sea King.

Oshi, alongside Ogunsanwo and a team of lawyers, visited Kirikiri Prison and confirmed that Igbojionu was from Abia State. Upon notifying Governor Otti, the matter was verified by the Abia State Attorney General, prompting swift intervention that led to the release of Igbojionu, Olawale Adediji, and another individual who could not immediately travel to Abia.

At a reception held in Umuahia, Governor Otti expressed gratitude to Oshi, Ogunsanwo, and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State for their roles in the effort.

“This is a victory for justice and humanity. We will give them the support they need to rebuild their lives,” Otti said, directing state officials to ensure their reintegration into society.

Speaking on behalf of the freed inmates, Mr. Igbojionu recounted how he was wrongfully arrested in 1999 after purchasing a generator from a man named Segun Ajibade, who later returned with the police to accuse him of theft. Igbojionu said he was beaten, coerced into signing a forced confession, and eventually sentenced to death in 2003—remaining on death row until his recent release in 2025.

“I thank God and Governor Otti for saving my life after all these years,” he said tearfully.

Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the protection of citizens’ rights.