The vibrant Rivers State fashion community is reeling from the devastating loss of Hope Georgewill, CEO of HMG Couture, who was brutally murdered by pirates following a harrowing abduction on the New Calabar River. Georgewill, a prominent and respected designer, was traveling from Elem Kalabari to Port Harcourt on Wednesday when their boat was allegedly intercepted by armed sea pirates within Degema Local Government Area.
The assailants, operating with ruthless efficiency, reportedly demanded a ransom of N10 million from the victims’ families. Despite fervent attempts to negotiate the release of Georgewill and two other captives, the designer was tragically executed on Friday afternoon, sparking widespread outrage and profound grief.
Georgewill’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the region, illuminating the escalating security crisis plaguing the coastal waterways. The designer, renowned for their innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship, was a pillar of the Port Harcourt fashion scene. His murder has amplified urgent calls for increased security measures to combat the pervasive threat of piracy.
At present, authorities have not released an official statement regarding the tragic incident, leaving the community in a state of mourning and apprehension.
