Armed men have stormed an orphanage and school facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State, abducting 23 pupils and the wife of the school proprietor in a late-night attack on Sunday.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the incident, noting that the facility—identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools—was operating in a remote bush area.
According to him, preliminary findings showed the school was not registered with the state government and had not been properly known to relevant authorities or security agencies.
Security operatives, including police officers, were immediately deployed to the scene following the attack. Fanwo said their swift response led to the rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils.
He added that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and to track down those responsible for the abduction.
“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 further stressed that operating schools and similar institutions in isolated locations without proper registration poses serious security risks, especially in the current security situation.
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“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 underway to rescue the remaining victims and bring the attackers to justice.