Gunmen abduct 23 pupils in Kogi orphanage

Gunmen have attacked an orphanage and school facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State, abducting 23 pupils and the proprietor’s wife in a late-night raid.

In a statement on Monday, Kingsley Fanwo, the state commissioner for information and communications, said the incident occurred on Sunday night.

He said the facility, identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was operating illegally in a remote, bushy location without registration with the state government or the knowledge of relevant security agencies.

Fanwo disclosed that police operatives and other security personnel were swiftly mobilised to the scene, leading to the rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils.

He added that operations were ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

“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.

“While the government remains fully committed to ensuring the rescue of all victims, it is important to stress that the operation of orphanages, schools and similar institutions in isolated and vulnerable locations without proper registration and notification to relevant authorities poses serious security risks, especially in the current security climate.”

He warned that such practices expose children and staff to avoidable danger and urged operators to comply strictly with regulatory and safety requirements.

Fanwo added that efforts were ongoing to bring the situation under control, with further updates to be provided as rescue operations continue.