Gunmen attack Orphanage in Kogi

Gunmen have invaded an orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, along the Kabba Junction axis of Lokoja, Kogi State, abducting 23 pupils and the wife of the proprietor in a late-night attack.

Authorities confirmed that 15 of the victims have been rescued, while eight persons remain in captivity as security operations intensify to secure their release.

In a statement, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said the attack occurred on April 26, 2026, when unknown gunmen stormed the premises of the facility identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools.

The state government condemned the incident, describing it as a serious security breach, and disclosed that the school was operating illegally in a remote, bushy area without registration or the knowledge of relevant authorities.

Security operatives led by the Nigeria Police Force, alongside other agencies, were said to have responded swiftly, leading to the rescue of 15 victims.

Fanwo commended the “gallantry and professionalism” of the operatives, noting that their prompt intervention helped limit the scale of the attack.

He, however, raised concerns over the proliferation of unregistered schools and orphanages in isolated locations, warning that such practices expose vulnerable children to significant security risks.

The government urged operators of similar facilities to comply strictly with regulatory requirements and engage relevant authorities for proper security assessment.

While assuring residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, the state government said security operations remain ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.