The Anambra State Police Command has launched an investigation into the shocking case of a young man, identified as Chigbo, who was allegedly chained and confined by his father since July 2021.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development, noting that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed operatives to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure justice is served.
Chigbo, also known as Agudo, was rescued over the weekend by irate youths in Etiti village, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area. Residents discovered him malnourished, with his hands tied and legs chained with rusted padlocks inside a family hut.
Sources alleged that his father, a feared native doctor, and his second wife deceived the community into believing that Chigbo had travelled to China five years ago. The truth emerged when villagers noticed the victim raising his chained hands to draw attention.
A viral video from the scene showed angry youths confronting the father, who dismissed concerns by saying it was nobody’s business if his son lived or died. His second wife later led the rescuers to the hut, where they battled for nearly 30 minutes to break the padlocks and free the young man.
While motives remain unclear, community members suspect ritual intentions, though another account suggested the victim may have been suffering from mental health challenges.
Ikenga assured that the police are pursuing all leads:
“Preliminary inquiries are ongoing to establish the facts and safeguard the victim’s well-being. Where culpability is established, those responsible will face the law.”
The police commended the community youths for their courage, describing their role as a model for grassroots partnership in policing. Meanwhile, Chigbo is receiving medical care as investigations continue.
Anambra Police Investigate Father Who Chained Son for Five Years in Igboukwu
