What happened

A newly admitted lawyer, Peace Onyesom Udoka, along with her sister Gift Onyesom, has finally regained her freedom after being abducted while en route from Abuja to Benin City. The pair were kidnapped on Friday, September 26, 2025, along the Okene-Auchi road in Kogi State. Sahara Reporters+3The Guardian Nigeria+3Linda Ikeji’s Blog+3

Peace had just been called to the bar on September 23 and was returning home, accompanied by her sister, when the incident occurred. The Guardian Nigeria+1

Rescue and Release

Their brother, Godspower Onyesom, confirmed to PUNCH Metro that both sisters are now safe at home. Linda Ikeji’s Blog+1

Peace delivered a message in a video shared with the press, thanking all those who aided in their release. She revealed that they were rescued by the military near Okpella. Linda Ikeji’s Blog+1

Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu also announced the news, stating the sisters were handed over to their family at a village around Okpella, noting the ordeal had been tough. Linda Ikeji’s Blog+1

Background & Concerns

• The incident gained national attention, partly because Peace had only just become a lawyer. The Guardian Nigeria+1

• Family and colleagues reported that kidnappers demanded ₦20 million for her release. Leadership News+2Sahara Reporters+2

• The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemned the abduction and called for immediate and safe release of Peace, her sister, and others who were kidnapped in the same stretch of highway. The Guardian Nigeria+2Sahara Reporters+2

Why This Matters

This kidnapping adds to a disturbing pattern of insecurity on major highways, particularly in and around Kogi State, where travelers are increasingly vulnerable. The timing—with Peace freshly called to the bar—underscores how even high-profile transitions in someone’s life do not carry protection.