The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued an urgent appeal to the federal government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the safe release of one of its members, Onyesom Peace Udoka, who was recently kidnapped along with her sister and other passengers on the Lokoja–Okene highway in Kogi State.
In a statement released by the NBA’s leadership, the association condemned the abduction, describing it as a grave threat not only to the safety of legal practitioners but also to the broader rule of law in the country. The NBA stressed the urgent need for coordinated action by security operatives to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Onyesom Peace Udoka, a respected legal practitioner, was abducted alongside several others while travelling on one of Kogi State’s major highways—an area that has recently witnessed a surge in criminal activities, including kidnappings and armed robberies. The incident has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges plaguing key transportation corridors in Nigeria.
The NBA called on the federal government to deploy all necessary resources, including intelligence and rapid response teams, to ensure the safe recovery of the abductees without delay. It also urged families of lawyers and the general public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities.
Security experts have noted that highways like Lokoja–Okene, which connect important commercial and administrative centers, have become hotspots for criminal gangs exploiting porous borders and limited patrols. The NBA’s appeal aligns with ongoing nationwide calls for improved security measures and better protection for citizens, particularly professionals who often travel for work.
As the search for Onyesom Peace Udoka and the other abductees continues, the NBA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its members and cooperating with law enforcement to address the growing menace of kidnapping across the country.
