Kogi confirms abduction of 24 orphanage children

The Kogi State government Monday confirmed that 24 children were kidnapped from an unregistered orphanage home.

Reacting in a statement, it said, 23 out of 24 were pupils with the wife of the proprietor.

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The State said security agents were on trail of abductors and 15 out of 24 abductees were rescued.

The statement which was issued by the State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, described the abduction on Sunday as unfortunate and avoidable. Hem said the rescue of 15 children was due to the swift intervention of security agents, expressed the belief that the remaining others would be rescued in good time.

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“The facility, identified as the Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was operating illegally in a remote, bushy location without registration with the state government or the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies.

‎”The incident occurred late on April 26, 2026, when unknown gunmen invaded the premises and abducted 23 pupils alongside the wife of the proprietor.

“Security operatives, led by the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State and supported by other agencies, have responded promptly, leading to the rescue of 15 of the victims.”

‎Fanwo commended the gallantry and professionalism of the security agencies, noting that their swift and coordinated response significantly curtailed the impact of the attack.

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

‎He warned that establishing orphanages, schools, and similar facilities in vulnerable areas without proper registration and notification to authorities poses serious security risks, especially in the prevailing security environment.

‎“The operation of such facilities outside regulatory oversight not only undermines safety standards but also exposes innocent children to avoidable dangers,” the Commissioner stated.

‎The government, therefore, urged operators of orphanages and schools to comply strictly with existing regulations and engage relevant authorities for proper security assessment and protection.

‎Reaffirming its stance, the Kogi State Government assured residents of its uncompromising commitment to the protection of lives and property, adding that security operations remain active to bring the situation under full control.

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