Pat Stevens/
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has demanded the urgent and safe release of Onyesom Peace Udoka, a newly called lawyer, and her sister, who were abducted along the Lokoja–Okene axis in Kogi State while returning from the Call to Bar ceremony in Abuja.
The NBA said the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N20 million for their release.
In a statement signed by Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, President of the NBA, the association described the development as shocking and deeply concerning and called on the federal government and security agencies to act without delay to secure the freedom of the abducted sisters.
The NBA stated, “This tragic development is unacceptable and utterly condemnable. It is heartbreaking that at a time when our nation should be celebrating the future of the legal profession, young lawyers and their families are subjected to such harrowing ordeals. No family should have to endure this trauma, and no citizen should live under the constant fear of insecurity on our roads.”
The NBA further urged the Federal Government and all relevant security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police, to rise to the occasion, act with urgency, and ensure the immediate and safe release of Udoka and all others in captivity.
The statement added, “The safety and security of Nigerians cannot continue to be treated with levity. It is the primary duty of government to protect the lives of its citizens, and this duty must be discharged with the seriousness it deserves.”
According to social media posts from colleagues, Udoka and her sister were abducted while travelling home from the Call to Bar ceremony.
One colleague appealed for public support, writing, “A dear friend and colleague Peace Udoka Onyesom and her Sister has been abducted, and the kidnappers are demanding the sum of 20 million naira for ransom before the end of tomorrow. Please assist us to save Peace and her Sister. 2004366151 Onyesom Faith Adaeze Globus Bank. PLEASE HELP!!”
Another post stated, “She has been kidnapped on her way home from the Call to Bar ceremony. Please we need help. There’s a 20 million naira ransom on her and her sister. @PoliceNG @NBAYLFOfficial @DeleFarotimi.”
The NBA expressed solidarity with the families of the abducted victims, stating, “We stand in solidarity with the families of the abducted victims in this difficult time, and we pray that God grants the victims a safe and speedy return to their loved ones.”
The association also called for intensified and sustained action to secure highways and restore public confidence in the government’s ability to guarantee the safety of all who travel across the country.
The abduction highlights growing security concerns on Nigerian highways, particularly along the Lokoja–Okene axis, a route that has increasingly been targeted by kidnappers.
The timing of the abduction, immediately after Udoka’s Call to Bar, underscores the vulnerabilities faced by citizens, even during moments meant to celebrate achievement and new beginnings.
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