For two years now, the family of Peter and Florence Awoke of Effium community of Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi has been living in psychological agony. Their daughter Grace Chimamanda Awoke was said to have abducted on January 23, 2021 by unknown persons.
In an exclusive chat with WITHIN NIGERIA reporter, one of the children Chinenye Awoke explained that since the incident occurred, the family has been living in total confusion, sadness and pain.
Explaining the incident that led to the alleged abduction of her younger sister, Chinenye narrated that “war broke out between Effium and Ezza in Effium community of Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi state on January 23/01/2021.
“The heat was much because they were gun shots, killings and a lot of properties were destroyed . The people that resided in the community were all running out of the community either to the nearest community or to any other place they feel safe.
“My sister, Grace with her other siblings and grandma were running away from the community for safety like every other person.
“My elder brother has earlier gone out of the community with my aged father and stopped them at our junction called ikpoki junctions to inquire where they were heading to.
“All of a sudden, the police made a sudden speedy stop in their midst which made them to scamper for safety. With such unexpected incident, some hoodlums used the opportunity to abduct her. And since then, she has not been seen.”
Asked if they have reported the incident to the police, Chinenye stated that “we were advised by some individuals that since she started missing in a war front and should wait till after the war before we can lay complaint.”
Narrating further, Chinenye stated that her 17 year old missing younger sister was a student of Besco international secondary school, Effium when the incident occurred.
Explaining their family background, Chinenye stated that “we are seven in number in my family; 4 boys and 3 girls
Grace the last girl but she has 2 younger brothers. I believe she is still alive. My father is still alive while my mum has died.”
On how the family has been coping since the incident occurred, she stated that “we have been feeling so sad. Sometimes I end up crying myself out.
“I am appealing to the general public to help me look around in their environment, if they can see Grace around them. If there is any person that has any useful information that can lead to her rescue, the person can report to the nearest police station or call me on 08160501251.”