CITIZENS COMPASS— Suspected gunmen have attacked an orphanage in Kogi State and abducted 23 children alongside the wife of its proprietor.
The orphanage, Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was located at Zariagi, along the Kabba Junction in Lokoja,
It was gathered that 15 of the abducted pupils have been rescued as confirmed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications in a statement on Monday.
According to him, The Kogi State Government commends the gallantry, professionalism, and swift response of the Police and other security agencies for rising decisively to the occasion.
Fanwo added that preliminary findings indicated that the facility was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration with the State Government and the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies.
He therefore warned proprietors of such facilities to ensure that they are registered with the government.
While the Government remains fully committed to ensuring the rescue of all victims, it is important to stress that the operation of orphanages, schools, and similar institutions in isolated and vulnerable locations, without proper registration and notification to relevant authorities, poses serious security risks, especially in the current security climate.
The Government strongly discourages such practices and reiterates the need for strict compliance with regulatory and safety protocols. All operators of such facilities are advised to engage with appropriate government agencies to ensure proper oversight, security assessment, and protection.
The Kogi State Government reassures citizens of its uncompromising commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state. Security operations remain active, and every effort is being made to bring this situation under control,” Fanwo said while adding that further updates on the incident will be communicated as necessary.
