By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has condemned an attack on an unregistered orphanage and school in Zariagi, Lokoja, where gunmen abducted pupils, confirming that 15 victims have been rescued.
In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the incident occurred late on April 26 when unidentified attackers invaded the facility, identified as Dahallukitab Group of School, and abducted 23 pupils along with the proprietor’s wife. He said security operatives, led by the Nigeria Police Force and supported by other agencies, responded promptly, leading to the rescue of 15 victims, while efforts continue to secure the release of those still in captivity.
Fanwo described the incident as unfortunate and raised concerns over the operation of unregistered institutions in remote locations without regulatory oversight. According to him, the facility was operating without registration or the knowledge of relevant authorities, a situation he said increases vulnerability to security threats.
“The operation of such facilities outside regulatory oversight exposes children to avoidable risks,” he said, urging school and orphanage operators to comply with government regulations and security protocols. The state government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and assured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible.
