Security Forces Rescue Remaining Victims Abducted From Kogi Orphanage, Islamic School
Kogi State Government confirms the rescue of the remaining nine victims abducted from an orphanage and Islamic training centre in Adavi LGA after coordinated security operations.
Kogi State Government confirms the rescue of the remaining nine victims abducted from an orphanage and Islamic training centre in Adavi LGA after coordinated security operations.
The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of the remaining nine victims abducted from the Tajudeen Islamic Foundation and Children’s Home alongside the Daarulkitab Islamic Training Center in Adavi Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were rescued following coordinated search-and-rescue operations involving troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
ARISE News had earlier reported that security operatives rescued 17 victims after suspected bandits invaded the Zariagi community and abducted 26 persons.
Confirming the latest rescue in a statement, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the operation as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to secure the release of all abducted victims.
According to the statement, the rescue operation was carried out in the early hours of May 6, 2026, around the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja Local Government Area.
“The operation led to the safe recovery of five boys, two girls, and two adult females from the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja Local Government Area,” the statement said.
The government added that the rescued victims had been evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment and medical attention.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation, praising their professionalism and commitment to protecting lives and property.“The governor also acknowledged the strength and resilience of the victims and their families, reiterating that the safety and security of all residents remain the top priority of his administration,” the statement added.
Ododo said the successful operation reflects the government’s determination to prevent criminal groups from gaining footholds within the state.
“This successful operation underscores our determination to ensure that criminal elements have no foothold in Kogi State. We will continue to strengthen our security architecture, deepen intelligence gathering, and provide the necessary support for our security agencies to act swiftly and decisively,” the governor stated.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting security efforts in the state, while commending the heads of security agencies for continued collaboration.
The Kogi State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against kidnapping and violent crimes, urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest those responsible for the abduction.
