By Oluwakemi Kindness
Gunmen have abducted 23 pupils and the wife of a school proprietor following an attack on a school and orphanage facility in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State.
Reports say the incident, which occurred late Sunday, targeted a facility identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools.
15 of the abducted pupils have been rescued, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims.
Government Confirms Rescue Efforts
Confirming the development, Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, said security operatives responded promptly to the attack.
He commended the police and other agencies for their swift intervention, noting that operations are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible.
School Operating Illegally Government
Fanwo disclosed that the affected facility was operating outside regulatory oversight.
“The facility was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration with the State Government and without the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies,” he said.
He warned that running schools and orphanages in isolated locations without proper authorisation exposes occupants to significant security risks.
Call for Compliance with Safety Regulations
The commissioner urged operators of similar institutions to comply strictly with government regulations and safety protocols.
He advised school and orphanage owners to engage relevant authorities to ensure proper oversight, security assessment, and protection.
Authorities say security agencies are working to bring the situation under control, with assurances that updates will be provided as rescue operations continue.
