According to Daily Trust, Miss Abasifreke Joseph, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, was kidnapped on January 9, 2025, along the Enugu-Ezike Road while traveling to Kogi State. The abduction occurred when the vehicle she was traveling in unexpectedly encountered armed assailants. Joseph, who was held captive for four days, recounted her ordeal after being released on January 13. The experience left her enduring severe physical and emotional distress, including hunger and torture.
Joseph described the events leading up to her kidnapping. While en route, a motorcycle rider informed the passengers that an armed robbery had been reported ahead on the road. Despite the warning, the bus driver continued the journey and eventually drove into the hands of the kidnappers. The situation quickly escalated, with the attackers opening fire on the bus. In response to the gunfire, the driver immediately abandoned the vehicle, instructed the passengers to flee, and opened the doors to allow them to escape into the surrounding bushes.
The sudden attack forced Joseph and other passengers to seek refuge in the nearby forest. Joseph recalled the panic and chaos as they ran for their lives, unaware of the kidnappers' next move. The captors quickly captured her and others, leading them away from the scene of the incident. She was held captive in an unknown location for several days, enduring harsh conditions, including hunger and the constant threat of violence.
During her captivity, Joseph revealed that she faced significant physical and psychological abuse. Her captors subjected her to physical torment, adding to the trauma of the abduction. The extended period of captivity compounded the hardship, as the kidnappers withheld food and water, leaving the hostages to suffer from severe deprivation.
On January 13, Joseph was finally released by the abductors, but the ordeal had left a deep impact on her. Her story highlights the growing threat of kidnapping along major roads, particularly in areas prone to such criminal activities. Following her release, Joseph received a visit from Mr. Sam Pepple, the NYSC Coordinator for Akwa Ibom, who expressed support and solidarity with her. The visit was part of the NYSC’s efforts to provide assistance to Joseph and ensure her well-being after the traumatic experience.
She said: “When they started shooting, our driver quickly came down from the vehicle, opened the door and asked us to run into the bush.