The Nigerian Bar Association has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act swiftly in rescuing one of its members, Onyesom Udoka, who was kidnapped along the Lokoja–Okene highway in Kogi State.
Udoka, a fresh law graduate, was abducted with her sister and other passengers while returning from her Call to Bar ceremony in Abuja, according to reports.
In a statement on Sunday, September 28, NBA President Afam Osigwe, SAN, condemned the incident, describing it as “unacceptable and utterly condemnable.”
He said, “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.”
Osigwe stressed that no family should suffer such trauma during a moment of joy, urging the government and security forces to prioritise the victims’ release.
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The NBA insisted that the protection of citizens must be treated as a matter of urgency.
“The safety and security of Nigerians cannot continue to be treated with levity. It is the primary duty of the government to protect the lives of its citizens, and this duty must be discharged with the seriousness it deserves,” the association stated.
The NBA also expressed solidarity with the families of the victims and pledged to support efforts aimed at enhancing the safety of Nigerians.
Reports indicate that Udoka graduated from Ambrose Alli University and attended the Nigerian Law School, Enugu Campus.
News of her abduction was shared on X by Blue Lawyer, who revealed that a ₦20 million ransom had been placed on her and her sister.