|By Peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has urged schools and parents to prioritize child safety after the dramatic rescue of 4-year-old Hope Evans, who was abducted from his school in Rivers State and found nearly a month later in Abuja.
Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, the Commissioner praised the coordinated efforts of the Rivers State Police Command and Abuja officers, whose swift action led to the arrest of 31-year-old Blessing Okoi, the alleged abductor, and the safe return of the child to his family.
The Disappearance
Hope Evans was lured away from Community Primary School Azubie in Port Harcourt on October 31, 2024, by Blessing, who reportedly promised the boy biscuits and eggs. The school failed to notice the abduction until later that evening, when Hope’s distressed mother, Miss Lydia Jonah Gabriel, raised the alarm.
Miss Lydia and her family launched a desperate search, learning from other students that Blessing, locally known as “Destiny’s mum,” had been spotted in the area. Despite tracing her to a nearby home, the suspect had already fled.
The case was quickly transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), which worked tirelessly to track down the boy and his abductor.
The Rescue Operation
After weeks of investigation and interstate collaboration, police tracked Blessing Okoi to Maraba, Abuja. On November 29, 2024, around 8:00 PM, officers apprehended Blessing and recovered Hope, unharmed but under a false identity as “David.”
During questioning, Blessing claimed to be Hope’s biological mother in a bid to manipulate a man, Mr. Evans, into believing he was the child’s father. Her story fell apart under scrutiny, with Miss Lydia providing clear evidence, including photographs, to prove her relationship with the boy.
Family’s Relief
For Miss Lydia, the reunion with her son brought immense relief after a harrowing month of uncertainty. “I am just so grateful my son is safe and sound,” she said, holding back tears. She recounted sleepless nights and the strain the incident placed on her family, even facing accusations from her husband during their desperate search.
Police Commendation and Warning
Commissioner Disu commended the teamwork between the Rivers and Abuja police teams, highlighting the importance of interstate collaboration in solving complex cases. He also urged schools to implement stricter security measures and for parents to educate their children on the dangers of engaging with strangers.
Meanwhile, Blessing Okoi remains in police custody, where authorities are preparing additional charges against her. Investigations continue into her alleged motives and actions, with police vowing to prevent similar cases in the future.
The case underscores the critical need for vigilance, communication, and community action to protect children from harm.
