15 rescued out of 23 pupils abducted in Kogi orphanage attack

Fifteen of the 23 pupils abducted by gunmen during a late-night raid on an orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, a community in Lokoja, Kogi State, have been rescued by security operatives, authorities confirmed on Monday.

The attackers also kidnapped the proprietor’s wife, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, targeted a facility identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, according to a statement issued on Monday by Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications.

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Fanwo disclosed that security agencies, including the police, responded swiftly to distress calls and were able to rescue 15 of the abducted pupils during an ongoing operation in the area.

However, eight victims, including the proprietor’s wife, remain in captivity as search-and-rescue efforts continue.

Authorities said the attacked institution was operating illegally in a secluded, bushy environment without registration or oversight from the state government and relevant regulatory bodies.

The commissioner stressed that the facility was unknown to authorities prior to the incident.

“The Kogi State Government commends the gallantry, professionalism, and swift response of the police and other security agencies for rising decisively to the occasion,” Fanwo said.

He noted that efforts have been intensified to secure the safe return of the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

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He warned that the operation of orphanages, schools, and similar institutions in isolated and unsecured locations, particularly without proper registration, poses significant risks, especially amid Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

The state government reiterated its directive that all such facilities must comply with regulatory and safety protocols, including proper documentation and engagement with relevant agencies for security assessments and oversight.

Residents in the Zariagi axis have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives as investigations continue.