Sunday, August 16, 2026

Okigwe Eight: Kidnapped Scripture Union delegates freed after 22 days

Eight members of the Scripture Union abducted along the interstate boundary between Imo and Anambra on June 14 while returning from a national conference are freed.

• July 6, 2026
Eight members of the Scripture Union abducted
Eight members of the Scripture Union abducted

Eight members of the Scripture Union abducted along the interstate boundary between Imo and Anambra on June 14 while returning from a national conference have regained their freedom.

Peoples Gazette reported that SU’s director-general, Uwem Cosmas, and a 300-level Law student at the University of Ibadan, Abolarin Tomisin, were among the members of the Osogbo regional conference who were abducted.

A statement on Monday by the president of SU, the UI branch, Temidayo Adeboye, said the development was “officially communicated to the Students’ Union in the early hours of Monday, following confirmation from the relevant authorities and representatives of the concerned organisation”.

Mr Adeboye stated, “The released individuals are currently undergoing the necessary post-release procedures and will return to their respective destinations as arrangements are concluded. We have been assured that our student will safely return to the University community soon.”

Also confirming the development, The Gazette obtained a video on Monday showing the victims and several congregants praying and singing praises.

The spokesperson for the police command in Imo, Henry Okoye, did not immediately return a request for a comment.

Also, the university spokesperson, Adejoke Akinpelu, and the SU Osogbo regional chairman, Pat Adekuoroye, were contacted for comments.

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