Six Defence Ministry Directors Abducted on Kabba–Lokoja Highway in Nigeria

Abduction Details Emerge

Six directors from Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Defence were abducted by suspected gunmen on Monday, November 10, 2025, along the Kabba–Lokoja highway in Kogi State. The senior officials were reportedly traveling from Lagos to Abuja to participate in a Directorate-level promotion examination when they were intercepted in what sources described as a 'well-coordinated ambush'.

The abducted individuals have been identified as:

• Mrs. Ngozi Ibeziakor
• Mrs. C.A. Emeribe
• Mrs. C. Helen Ezeakor
• Mrs. C.A. Ladoye
• Mrs. J.A. Onwuzurike
• Mrs. Catherine O. Essien

All six directors are female and are staff members of the Command Day Secondary School (CDSS), Ojo, Lagos, and also members of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN).

Official Response and Concerns

The abduction has sent shockwaves through the Defence Ministry and the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), raising renewed fears about the safety of civil servants traveling for official duties. In a joint statement, ASCSN President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo condemned the attack and assured members that efforts were underway to rescue the victims.

The ASCSN also renewed its call for the Federal Civil Service Commission to decentralize promotion examinations, urging that they be conducted in states rather than compelling public service employees to travel long distances to Abuja. The union stated, 'The current security situation and deplorable road conditions expose workers to grave risks.'

Search and Rescue Operations

The Ministry of Defence has mobilized its security operatives and deployed special security teams to take urgent action toward securing the release of the abducted officials. These teams are reportedly combing suspected hideouts across parts of Kogi State, where the incident occurred. Sources indicate that negotiations are also underway through back channels, though details remain tightly guarded to avoid jeopardizing the operation.

Highway Security Concerns

The Kabba–Lokoja highway, a vital artery connecting Nigeria's south to the north, has become notorious for frequent kidnappings and armed attacks. This incident further highlights the worsening insecurity along Nigerian highways and the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect public officials and other road users across the country.