Armed attackers have invaded an orphanage and school facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State, kidnapping 23 pupils and the wife of the school proprietor during a late-night raid on Sunday.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the incident, noting that the school, identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was located in a remote bush area.
He explained that preliminary findings indicated the institution was not registered with the state government and had not been officially known to relevant authorities or security agencies before the attack.
Following the incident, security operatives, including police personnel, were deployed to the scene. Fanwo said their quick intervention led to the rescue of 15 abducted pupils.
He added that efforts were ongoing to rescue the remaining eight victims and apprehend those behind 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.
He also warned against the operation of schools and similar institutions in isolated areas without proper registration and oversight, stressing the security risks involved.
“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.
“The Government strongly discourages such practices and reiterates the need for strict compliance with regulatory and safety protocols.
“All operators of such facilities are advised to engage with appropriate government agencies to ensure proper oversight, security assessment, and protection,” he added.
Authorities say operations are still ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
