Panic in civil service as six defence ministry directors abducted on Kabba–Lokoja highway
Confusion and anxiety have enveloped the Federal Civil Service following the abduction of six Directors from the Federal Ministry of Defence by suspected gunmen along the Kaba–Lokoja highway.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred on Monday, November 10, 2025, as the senior officers were travelling from Lagos to Abuja to participate in a Directorate-level promotion examination. Sources described the attack as a “well-coordinated ambush” that caught the victims off guard.
The abduction has sent shockwaves through the Ministry of Defence and the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), reigniting concerns over the safety of public officials travelling for official assignments.
In a joint statement, ASCSN President, Shehu Mohammed, and Secretary-General, Joshua Apebo, strongly condemned the incident and assured members that all necessary efforts were underway to secure the officers’ release.
Those abducted were identified as Ngozi Ibeziakor, C.A. Emeribe, C. Helen Ezeakor, C.A. Ladoye, J.A. Onwuzurike, and Catherine O. Essien—all members of the union and staff of Command Day Secondary School (CDSS), Ojo, Lagos.
The ASCSN confirmed that the Defence Ministry had already mobilised its security operatives and was taking urgent steps to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
“We have consistently advised the Federal Civil Service Commission to conduct promotion examinations within the states rather than compel public servants to undertake long, risky journeys to Abuja,” the statement read.
The union further warned that the current security situation and poor road conditions posed serious threats to workers, urging the government to decentralise all promotion and verification exercises to prevent future tragedies.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence has reportedly intensified search operations, deploying specialised security teams to comb suspected hideouts across Kogi State.
The ASCSN commended Defence authorities for their prompt response and called on all security agencies to work tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the abducted officers.
