Enugu demolishes mansion of native doctor linked to ritual killings

The Enugu state government has demolished a mansion owned by Obi Levi Obieze — a herbalist and suspected ritual killer.

On Thursday, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) arrested Obieze over alleged abduction, kidnapping, and ritual killings.

Popularly known as Levi Onyeka, the suspect plies his trade in Umuojor village, Ezeagu LGA of Enugu.

Recently, videos and pictures showing gory images of corpses in a sewage pit, at an uncompleted building allegedly owned by Obieze, began trending on social media.

In a statement by Chidiebere Onyia, secretary to the state government, the Enugu government commended officers of the immigration service, the state police command, and other security agencies, for the inter-agency coordination that led to the arrest.

The government also said the suspect’s mansion in Umumba Ndiagu was demolished by relevant authorities earlier in the week.

The statement said this is in line with extant laws regarding property linked to kidnapping, to serve as a deterrent, adding that the suspect would face the full weight of the law.

“The Enugu State Government received with delight the news of the arrest of the fugitive suspected kidnap kingpin and ritualist, Levi Obieze, by the officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service,” the statement reads.

“This arrest has further strengthened our hands in our bid to ensure that justice is served on all the persons involved in the gory incidents of abduction, kidnapping, and ritual killings linked to the suspect.

“As usual, the Enugu State Government has already demolished the property in his country home on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in line with Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, regarding property linked to kidnapping.”

The government commended the “vigilance and efforts of community members”, and civilian and state security operatives.

“This administration will not condone any form of criminality in our communities under any guise,” the statement added.

“Therefore, this is also a call on community leaders — traditional rulers, Presidents-General of Town Unions, Neighbourhood Watch, among others, to be watchful and report such persons to government and security agencies.

“Those who cover up for such criminals will also be treated as accomplices.”