Kogi State: Four Abducted Defence Ministry Directors Regain Freedom, Two Feared Dead

F Four senior female directors of the Ministry of Defence who were abducted in Kogi State have regained their freedom after nearly two weeks in captivity.

The officials were kidnapped while travelling for a promotion course and examinations and were forced to trek for days through forest paths stretching from Kogi to Kaduna State.

The six victims — Mrs. Ngozi Ibeziakor, Mrs. C.A. Emeribe, Mrs. C. Helen Ezeakor, Mrs. C.A. Ladoye, Mrs. J.A. Onwuzurike, and Mrs. Catherine O. Essien — were ambushed along the Kabba–Lokoja highway by armed men who led them deep into the forest. All are senior directors of the Defence Ministry.

According to Sahara Reporters, two of the women were feared dead after reportedly collapsing from exhaustion during the long forced trek. A source familiar with the incident said the other four survivors are currently undergoing medical examinations. The deaths have not been independently verified.

The source added that the victims endured severe deprivation throughout their captivity, including limited access to food, water, and rest — conditions believed to have contributed to the tragedy. Efforts to reach the Defence Headquarters spokesperson, Brigadier General Samaila, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not returned.

The abduction, which occurred on November 10, 2025, sparked concern within the Defence Ministry and the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN). In a joint statement, ASCSN President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo condemned the attack and confirmed the identities of the kidnapped directors.