The Imo State Police Command has firmly dispelled rumours of a purported abduction involving fifteen (15) students from Eminent Scholars Imperial Academy, Onitsha, Anambra State. Contrary to viral reports suggesting foul play, the students were never in danger of abduction but rather found themselves stranded due to a mechanical breakdown of their school bus.
According to an official statement released by the Command, the students had travelled to Imo State on 16th May 2025 to write their rescheduled JAMB examinations at a CBT centre located within the Okigwe Zone. Accompanied by their school proprietor and support personnel, the candidates successfully arrived and completed their examinations without incident.
However, trouble arose during their journey back to Onitsha. The school bus suffered a mechanical failure in the remote Amuro axis of Okigwe—an area known for its poor mobile network reception. The disruption in communication led to a temporary loss of contact with the students, sparking online speculations and heightened concerns among the public.
Responding swiftly to the situation, operatives of the Imo State Police Command, working in tandem with other security agencies, launched a coordinated rescue patrol. Their prompt action led to the successful location and recovery of the stranded students. The group was then safely escorted to Owerri, where logistics were arranged to tow the faulty vehicle for repairs.
After the bus was fixed, the students, alongside their school officials, continued their journey and returned safely to Onitsha the following day, 17th May 2025, all in sound health and high spirits.
The Police Command extended appreciation to vigilant citizens who reported the situation, while cautioning against the spread of false or unverified narratives that could cause undue panic. It reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents and visitors within the state.
DSP Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Imo State Command, reiterated the importance of responsible information sharing and assured the public that the Command will continue to respond swiftly and effectively to any situation that threatens public safety.
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