Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted 23 pupils alongside the wife of Proprietor an orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, on Kabba Junction axis of Lokoja, Kogi State.
In a statement, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said gunmen invaded and attacked the premises of the orphanage late on April Sunday 26, 2026.
He condemned the attack on the facility identified as Dahallukitab Group of School, which it said was operating illegally in a remote, bushy location without registration with the State Government or the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies.
The government warned that establishing orphanages, schools, and similar facilities in vulnerable areas without proper registration and notification to authorities poses serious security risks, especially in the prevailing security environment.
According to the Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, security operatives, led by the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State and supported by other agencies, responded promptly, leading to the rescue of 15 of the victims and commended the gallantry and professionalism of the security agencies, noting that their swift and coordinated response significantly curtailed the impact of the attack.
AIT reports that Femi Fanwo assured the public that efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice, the government raised concerns over the operation of unregistered institutions in isolated locations.
The government therefore urged operators of orphanages and schools to comply strictly with existing regulations and engage relevant authorities for proper security assessment and protection.
Kogi State Government has assured residents of its uncompromising commitment to the protection of lives and property, noting that security operations remain active to bring the situation under full control in due course.
