Kogi Govt Rescues 15 Pupils as Gunmen Attack Orphanage

Kogi Govt Rescues 15 Pupils as Gunmen Attack Orphanage

Kogi Government Rescues 15 Pupils as Gunmen Attack Orphanage

·      Gunmen Attack Orphanage in Lokoja

·      Swift Response by Security Agencies

·      Fifteen Pupils Rescued, Others Still Missing

·      Facility Operating Without Registration

·      Government Commends Security Operatives

·      Ongoing Efforts to Rescue Remaining Victims

The Kogi State Government has confirmed a violent attack on an orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, located along the Kabba Junction axis of Lokoja.

The incident occurred late on April 26, 2026, when suspected gunmen stormed the premises, abducting 23 pupils and the wife of the proprietor. Authorities described the attack as both unfortunate and preventable, highlighting the vulnerability of institutions operating outside official oversight.

In a statement issued by Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, it was revealed that 15 of the abducted pupils were rescued following swift intervention by security agencies.

The Nigeria Police Force, supported by other operatives, coordinated a rapid response that limited the scale of the tragedy. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims and to apprehend the perpetrators.

The facility, identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was allegedly operating illegally in a remote, bushy area without registration or the knowledge of relevant authorities.

The government expressed concern over the proliferation of unregistered orphanages and schools in isolated locations, warning that such practices pose significant security risks, especially in the current climate of insecurity.

Commissioner Fanwo commended the professionalism and gallantry of the security agencies, emphasizing that their coordinated action was crucial in rescuing the 15 pupils.

He assured the public that intensified efforts are underway to rescue the remaining victims and to bring the attackers to justice.

This incident underscores the broader challenges of insecurity in Nigeria and the urgent need for stricter regulation of educational and care facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations.