The Imo State Police Command has confirmed that all 15 candidates who were reported missing after traveling from Onitsha to Imo State for their Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination have been found safe.
The students, accompanied by their school proprietor and staff from Eminent Scholars Imperial Academy in Onitsha, Anambra State, departed Onitsha on May 16 to write their exams at the Computer-Based Test (CBT) center in Okigwe Zone, Imo State.
Although they completed their examinations successfully, their journey back was interrupted by a vehicle breakdown at Amuro, Okigwe—a location known for poor mobile network coverage.
In a statement released by the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, it was explained that the mechanical failure caused a communication gap, sparking rumors and concerns about their whereabouts on social media.
Upon learning of the situation, the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, swiftly located the stranded students and safely escorted them to Owerri.
The students were provided with care and support before resuming their journey back to Onitsha on May 17, arriving in good condition.
The police emphasized that there was no abduction or foul play involved and expressed appreciation to the public for their concern, while urging against the spread of unverified information.
“The Imo State Police Command wishes to clarify reports concerning the fifteen (15) students of Eminent Scholars Imperial Academy, Onitsha, Anambra State, who departed Onitsha on 16th May 2025 for their rescheduled JAMB examinations at the CBT centre in Okigwe Zone, Imo State.
“The Command unequivocally confirms that no abduction took place. The students, along with their proprietor and support staff, safely arrived in Imo State and completed their examinations as scheduled.
“Unfortunately, during their return journey, the school bus experienced a mechanical failure in the Amuro area of Okigwe, where mobile network coverage is limited. This unforeseen breakdown led to a communication gap, resulting in speculation and concerns for their safety on social media.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the Imo State Police Command, in close cooperation with sister security agencies, promptly conducted a coordinated patrol and located the stranded students. They were safely escorted to Owerri, where arrangements were made to repair the school bus.
“Following the repairs, the students and their proprietor resumed their journey and returned to Onitsha on 17th May 2025, all in good health.
“The Command appreciates the concern shown by members of the public and encourages people to refrain from spreading unverified information while continuing to support security efforts in Imo State.
“The Imo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors within Imo State.”
