The Kogi State Government has announced the successful rescue of all individuals kidnapped from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Lokoja.
The disclosure was made on Wednesday in Lokoja by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo.
Armed attackers had invaded the orphanage on April 26, abducting 23 children alongside the wife of the orphanage proprietor.
Security operatives had earlier secured the release of 15 victims on April 27 after coordinated operations were launched across different parts of the state.
Fanwo revealed that the remaining nine victims were rescued during a security operation carried out in the early hours of Wednesday.
He described the rescue as a significant victory in the ongoing fight against criminal activities in the state and a moment of relief for the affected families.
According to him, troops from the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army spearheaded the operation with support from other security agencies.
He explained that the mission took place in the Agbaja Forest area of Lokoja Local Government Area, leading to the rescue of five boys, two girls, and two adult women.
Fanwo added that the victims had been moved to a military medical facility for treatment and proper care.
Governor Ahmed Ododo commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation for their courage and dedication.
He also praised the victims and their relatives for remaining strong throughout the ordeal.
Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
He noted that the successful rescue operation demonstrated the government’s resolve to prevent criminal groups from operating freely in Kogi.
The governor stated that efforts to strengthen the state’s security framework, improve intelligence gathering, and support security agencies would continue.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting measures aimed at maintaining peace and security in the state.
Ododo also acknowledged the cooperation among security agencies across the country in tackling violent crimes.
He reiterated that the state government would not tolerate kidnapping and other criminal activities.
The governor urged residents to remain alert and provide useful information to security agencies to help prevent future incidents.
Authorities said investigations and manhunt operations are ongoing to ensure those responsible for the abduction are arrested and prosecuted.