23 Pupils Abducted in Kogi State, 15 Rescued

Gunmen abducted 23 pupils and the wife of an orphanage proprietor from an unregistered facility in an isolated area of Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State in northcentral Nigeria, late on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Authorities reported that security forces rescued 15 of the pupils shortly after the raid, with operations ongoing to free the remaining eight victims and capture the attackers.

The facility, known as the Dahallukitab Group of Schools, operated illegally in a remote, bushy location along the Kabba Junction axis in Zariagi without registration or notification to state authorities, according to Kogi State Commissioner for Information Kingsley Femi Fanwo. He described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable in a statement issued Monday, noting that the site's vulnerability contributed to the security breach.

Security agencies, led by the Kogi State Police Command and supported by other operatives, mobilized swiftly upon receiving reports of the attack. "Their prompt and coordinated response led to the successful rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils," Fanwo said. He commended the forces for their gallantry and professionalism, adding that intensive efforts continue to secure...