Gunmen have abducted 23 pupils and the wife of a school proprietor following an attack on an orphanage and school facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State.
The incident, which occurred late Sunday, targeted a private institution identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, leaving the community in shock and prompting a swift security response.
Confirming the attack on Monday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said security operatives immediately mobilised to the scene and succeeded in rescuing 15 of the abducted pupils.
According to Fanwo, eight victims remain in captivity as security agencies intensify efforts to secure their release and track down the attackers.
He further disclosed that preliminary findings indicate the school was operating outside official regulatory oversight.
“The facility was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration with the State Government and without the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies,” he said.
Fanwo commended the rapid response of security operatives, describing their intervention as “gallant and professional,” and credited them with preventing a worse outcome.
The commissioner warned against the operation of schools and orphanages in isolated areas without proper authorisation, stressing that such practices expose children and staff to avoidable security risks.
“Operators of orphanages, schools, and similar institutions must comply with regulatory and safety protocols. Facilities in vulnerable locations without proper oversight pose serious security risks in the current climate,” he said.
He added that the state government remains committed to ensuring the rescue of all remaining victims and bringing those responsible to justice.
Security agencies are reportedly continuing coordinated operations in the area, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack are ongoing.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as efforts intensify to restore normalcy and secure the safe return of the abducted victims.