The Kogi State Government has announced the rescue of 15 pupils abducted from an unregistered educational facility in Zariagi.
This was disclosed in a statement issued in Lokoja by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo.
He said security operations are still ongoing to secure the release of other victims, including the wife of the school operator.
According to him, the facility known as Dahallukitab Group of School was operating illegally in a secluded, bushy area along the Kabba Junction axis without proper registration or notification to relevant authorities.
Fanwo explained that the attack occurred late on April 26 when armed men invaded the premises and abducted 23 pupils as well as the proprietor’s wife.
He added that security agencies, led by the Nigeria Police Force and supported by other formations, responded swiftly and successfully rescued 15 of the abducted children.
The commissioner commended the prompt response and coordination of security operatives, noting that their intervention helped reduce the scale of the incident.
He expressed concern over the existence of unregistered schools and orphanage homes in isolated locations, warning that such establishments pose significant security risks.
Fanwo stressed that operating outside regulatory approval not only compromises safety standards but also exposes children to avoidable dangers.
He urged owners of schools and care facilities to comply with regulatory requirements and engage relevant authorities for proper monitoring and security clearance.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kogi State.
Security efforts, he added, are ongoing to ensure the safe recovery of all remaining victims and full resolution of the incident.