Quick Summary:
DefenceMinistryKidnap as six directors from the Federal Ministry of Defense were abducted by gunmen along the Kabba-Lokoja highway while traveling for a promotion exam, sparking nationwide concern over the safety of civil servants.
DefenceMinistryKidnap has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s civil service after six directors from the Federal Ministry of Defense were kidnapped by gunmen on November 10, 2025, along the Kabba-Lokoja highway in Kogi State.
The officials were reportedly traveling from Lagos to Abuja to participate in a Directorate-level promotion examination when their convoy was ambushed.
Identities of the Victims
The abducted directors have been identified as:
- Mrs. Ngozi Ibeziakor
- Mrs. C. Emeribe
- Mrs. Helen Ezeakor
- Mrs. C. Ladoye
- Mrs. J. Onwuzurike
- Mrs. Catherine Essien
All six are senior staff members of Command Day Secondary School, Ojo, Lagos, under the Federal Ministry of Defence.
Reactions and Rescue Efforts
The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) described the abduction as “shocking and deeply distressing”, urging immediate government intervention to ensure the victims’ safe return.
In a joint statement signed by ASCSN President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo, the association confirmed that security operatives from the Defence Ministry have been mobilized to rescue the kidnapped officials.
The ASCSN emphasized that the incident underscores the urgent need for decentralized examination centers and enhanced security measures for government employees traveling across the country.
Growing Security Concerns
The abduction has heightened fears among civil servants and raised questions about the safety of public officials on official assignments.
Observers note that the Kabba-Lokoja highway has become increasingly notorious for kidnappings and armed attacks, with several incidents reported in recent months.
Security analysts have urged the federal government to intensify patrols along major highways and adopt technology-driven surveillance systems to curb the rising wave of abductions.
Government Response
As of press time, the Federal Ministry of Defence has not issued an official statement on the incident. However, sources within the ministry confirmed that joint security operations involving the military, police, and local vigilante groups are underway to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims.
The Kogi State Police Command has also launched an investigation, pledging to work closely with federal authorities to ensure the safe recovery of the abducted directors.