Amanze Chinonye
Four of the six directors of the Federal Ministry of Defence who were abducted on 10 November along the Kabba – Lokoja highway have been released, the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) confirmed on Friday.
The officials were travelling from Lagos to Abuja for a scheduled promotion examination when armed assailants intercepted their vehicle and abducted them, sparking widespread concern among families and colleagues.
The kidnappers were reported to have demanded a ransom of N150 million for the release of all six directors.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a statement jointly signed by ASCSN President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo, the union identified the freed directors as Helen Ezeakor, C. A. Ladoye, Ngozi Ibeziakor and Essien Catherine. The four are said to be receiving medical attention following their ordeal.
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Two others C. A. Emeribe and J. A. Onwuzurike remain in captivity. The union urged the Ministry of Defence and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts, insisting that the search must continue until all abducted officials are safely reunited with their families.
ASCSN also reiterated its demand for decentralised promotion examinations, arguing that compelling civil servants to embark on long-distance travel exposes them to avoidable dangers, particularly along insecure highways. The union commended ongoing government measures aimed at improving security across major routes but stressed the need for sustained action.
It remains unclear whether any ransom was paid before the release of the four directors. Security analysts note that in many abduction incidents across the country, victims are often freed after ransom payments, despite official discouragement of such transactions.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
