Gunmen have abducted 23 pupils and the wife of a school proprietor following an attack on an orphanage and school facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State.
The incident occurred late Sunday at Dahallukitab Group of Schools, a facility reportedly located in a remote part of the community.
Confirming the development on Monday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said security operatives responded swiftly, leading to the rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils.
He disclosed that the school was operating without proper registration or oversight from the state government and relevant authorities.
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Fanwo added that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and apprehend those behind the attack.
He commended the police and other security agencies for their prompt and professional response to the incident.
The commissioner also warned against operating schools and orphanages in isolated locations without proper authorisation, noting that such practices expose occupants to serious security risks.
He urged operators of such facilities to comply with regulatory requirements and engage relevant authorities to ensure proper oversight and protection.
Security agencies, he said, are continuing operations in the area, with assurances that updates will be provided as efforts progress.
