The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of 15 pupils who were abducted from an unregistered orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, Kogi State.
This was disclosed in a statement on Monday in Lokoja by the Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo.
According to Fanwo, security operations are still underway to secure the release of the remaining victims, including the wife of the facility’s proprietor.
He explained that the institution, identified as Dahallukitab Group of School, was allegedly operating illegally in a remote bush area along the Kabba Junction axis without proper registration or official notification to relevant authorities.
“The incident happened on April 26 when armed men invaded the premises and abducted 23 pupils, along with the proprietor’s wife,” the statement read. “However, swift intervention by security operatives led by the Nigeria Police Force, supported by other agencies, resulted in the rescue of 15 of the pupils.”
Fanwo praised the “swift and professional response” of the security agencies, noting that their coordinated effort helped reduce the severity of the incident.
The Kogi state government also raised concerns about the rising number of unregistered schools and orphanage homes operating in isolated areas, warning that such establishments pose serious security risks.
He stressed that operating such facilities outside regulatory oversight not only weakens safety standards but also exposes children to avoidable dangers.
Fanwo urged proprietors of schools and orphanages to strictly adhere to regulatory guidelines and engage appropriate authorities for proper monitoring and security evaluation.
He reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
According to him, security agencies are continuing operations to ensure the full rescue of all remaining victims and bring the situation under control.
