The Kogi State Government has confirmed an attack on an orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, along the Kabba Junction axis of Lokoja, describing the incident as unfortunate and preventable.

The attack occurred late on April 26, 2026, when suspected gunmen stormed the premises, abducting 23 pupils and the wife of the proprietor.

Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed that 15 of the abducted pupils have been rescued following the swift intervention of security agencies, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims.

He identified the facility as Dahallukitab Group of School, noting that it was allegedly operating illegally in a remote, bushy area without registration or the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies.

According to the Commissioner, security operatives, led by the Nigeria Police Force and supported by other agencies, responded promptly, leading to the successful rescue of the 15 victims.

Fanwo commended the professionalism and gallantry of the security agencies, stating that their coordinated response helped to limit the scale of the incident.

While assuring that efforts are being intensified to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators, the government raised concerns over the proliferation of unregistered institutions in isolated locations.

He warned that operating orphanages and schools in vulnerable areas without proper registration and notification to authorities poses significant security risks, particularly in the current security climate.

Frederick Odimayo