The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has confirmed that four of the six directors from the Federal Ministry of Defence who were abducted on the 10th of November along the Kabba–Lokoja highway have regained their freedom.
The officials were travelling from Lagos to Abuja for a promotion examination when armed men intercepted their vehicle and took them hostage. The abductors later demanded ₦150 million for the release of all six victims, sparking concern among family members and colleagues.
In a statement jointly signed by ASCSN President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo, the union announced that the rescued directors, Helen Ezeakor, C. A. Ladoye, Ngozi Ibeziakor, and Essien Catherine—are now receiving medical attention.
Two other directors, C. A. Emeribe and J. A. Onwuzurike, remain in captivity. The union called on the Ministry of Defence and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their safe release, stressing that the search must continue until all abducted officers are recovered.
ASCSN also reiterated its demand for decentralised promotion examinations, noting that long-distance travel exposes civil servants to avoidable risks. The union commended ongoing government efforts to enhance security along major highways.
It is still unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure the freedom of the four officials. Analysts point out that in many abduction cases in Nigeria, victims are often released following ransom payments.
