NEWS
Hero of Abia’s Dark Days Rewarded as Governor Alex Otti Offers Overseas Medical Lifeline to Soldier Who Crushed Notorious Kidnap Kingpin “OSISIKANKWU” and Restored Peace Across the State
In a remarkable gesture of gratitude and recognition, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has rewarded a brave soldier of the Nigerian Army, Staff Sergeant Amoke Gunshot Simeon, whose gallantry and unwavering commitment played a decisive role in ending one of the most terrifying eras in the State’s history.
Staff Sergeant Amoke, who served in Abia State between 2010 and 2014, was at the forefront of military operations during the peak of insecurity, when kidnapping and violent crimes held residents hostage and forced many to flee the State. As part of a dedicated troop, he led the mission that brought justice to the dreaded kidnapping kingpin known as “OSISIKANKWU,” a figure whose reign of terror crippled economic and social life in Abia.
His bravery, alongside that of his team, ultimately dismantled the criminal network, restoring calm and paving the way for the peace the State enjoys today.
In recognition of his sacrifices, Governor Otti, during a meeting with the gallant soldier on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, in his office, offered to sponsor his medical treatment abroad. The Governor assured that the Abia State Government would fully cater for the expenses to ensure the injured soldier regains full health.
Staff Sergeant Amoke Gunshot Simeon, a native of Nsukka in Enugu State, had sustained severe injuries after being involved in a motor accident while on active duty in the Northeast, following his deployment from Abia. The accident left him with broken legs, significantly affecting his mobility.
Speaking with journalists after meeting with the Governor, the visibly emotional soldier, who arrived with crutches and was accompanied by his caregiver and former colleagues, recounted his ordeal and expressed deep appreciation for the life-changing intervention.
“It was actually an accident, a vehicle accident in the Northeast. And it was wrongly managed. Because I was believing on the promise made to me when they did the thing. But it was not getting better.
“So, I had no choice. I had to just proceed where the military are treating me and continued from there. They (the Federal government authorities) are all following up on my treatment.
“I’m so happy, I’m so excited that Governor Otti can remember those who fought in Abia State. And being remembered, it will motivate the other military men in Abia State to know that whenever you are working, take money aside and do the job they ask you to do.
“So, Governor Otti has promised me that whatever it will cost, to take me outside, they (Abia State government) will fund it and get me back on my feet. And I cannot stop being grateful to Abia State. I cannot stop thanking Abia State for remembering me through their very good Governor,“ Simeon said.
Reflecting on his mission in Abia during the height of insecurity, the soldier explained that his assignment, alongside his colleagues, was to track down kidnappers and criminal elements threatening the safety of residents.
“So, that was the role. So, it’s a task given to us. I was not serving in the 144 Battalion. I was brought to join them, to work with them from August 2010. But, when we executed the assignment and achieved the victory (eliminating OSISIKANKWU and dislodging his terror group), the people were happy and celebrated. And today, Abia State is safer and have peace than before.
“So, I’m so happy,“ Mr Simeon stated.
In a striking revelation that underscores his integrity, Mr Simeon disclosed that he was offered a staggering sum of ₦50 million by the notorious kingpin to compromise the mission and allow his criminal enterprise to continue.
“I was on a general patrol in Abia State. From Ngwa High School, Asa from Asa Onicha Ngwa, Ikot–Ekpene, almost everywhere in Abia State. That’s the full operation I was doing then.
“I was the officer, they promised money. I was the officer, they promised 50 million. That I should name my price. I said no.
“So, that’s what gave the people of Abia State joy to celebrate me.
“Dr Alex Otti is a very good Governor. Meeting him is like sitting beside my father. He gave me a listening ear,“ he said.
Staff Sergeant Amoke emphasized that integrity and dedication ultimately yield rewards, noting that his experience stands as a testament to the value of honesty and patriotism.
“A good job pays. So, you can use mine as an example. That after my good work in Abia State, it’s paying me today.
“And it’s making way for me, giving me more joy. And more happiness. Because if then, I had accepted what the criminals offered me.
“Today, I will not have a very good name in Abia State. I will not be treated well in Abia State. But today, I’m so proud and so happy for Governor Otti and thank him for remembering me,“
The Governor’s gesture has been widely hailed as a powerful message that sacrifice, courage, and integrity will never go unnoticed, reinforcing a culture of honor and recognition for those w
ho risk their lives in service to society.