Kidnappers holding six senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Defence have demanded N150 million for their release, worsening the distress of their families, who say they are struggling to cope with the situation.
A relative of one of the victims said the ransom demand has deepened their fear and uncertainty, noting that raising such an amount feels impossible. The families pleaded with the abductors to free their loved ones unharmed.
The victims — Ngozi Ibeziakor, C. Emeribe, Helen Ezeakor, C. Ladoye, J. Onwuzurike, and Catherine Essien — were kidnapped on Monday, November 10, 2025, along the Kabba–Lokoja highway while travelling from Lagos to Abuja for a promotion examination.
The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) condemned the abduction, saying the directors, who work at Command Day Secondary School in Lagos, were on official duty when the attack occurred. The union added that the Ministry of Defence has mobilised security operatives to work toward securing their release.
ASCSN also renewed its call for the decentralisation of promotion examinations to reduce the risks associated with long-distance travel for federal workers.
Security sources described the attack as well-planned, further raising concerns about the safety of civil servants during official assignments.
Meanwhile, families of the abducted directors continue to appeal to the kidnappers for mercy and the safe return of their relatives.
