Four defence ministry directors freed after two weeks in captivity; two feared dead from exhaustion

Four Defence Ministry Directors Freed After Two Weeks in Captivity; Two Feared Dead from Exhaustion

Four senior female directors of the Ministry of Defence abducted in Kogi State have regained their freedom after enduring nearly two weeks in the custody of armed men. The officials were kidnapped while travelling for a scheduled promotion course and examinations.

The six officials — 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 intercepted along the Kabba–Lokoja highway by armed attackers who forcefully led them into the forest. All are senior staff of the Defence Ministry.

According to a report by Sahara Reporters, the victims were compelled to trek long distances through forest routes from Kogi to Kaduna, surviving under harsh conditions. A source familiar with the ordeal said the abductors subjected the women to severe deprivation, including limited access to food, water, and rest.

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While four of the kidnapped directors have been released and are currently undergoing medical examinations, two others were feared dead. Their reported deaths were attributed to extreme exhaustion during the forced trek, though the claim has not been independently confirmed.

“I learned they have been released, but two of them unfortunately couldn’t make it,” the source said. “They died out of exhaustion after trekking from Kogi to Kaduna. The remaining four are receiving medical attention.”

Efforts to obtain official comments from the Defence Headquarters spokesperson, Brigadier General Samaila, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not returned.

The attack, which occurred on November 10, 2025, sparked anxiety within the Defence Ministry and the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN). The union, in a statement signed by its President, Shehu Mohammed, and Secretary-General, Joshua Apebo, condemned the kidnapping and confirmed the identities of the abducted directors.

The incident has raised renewed concerns over rising cases of kidnapping in Nigeria, particularly along major highways in Kogi State, and the vulnerability of government officials to coordinated attacks.

 

Four defence ministry directors freed after two weeks in captivity; two feared dead from exhaustion