Security forces in Kogi State have successfully rescued 17 pupils who were kidnapped from an orphanage and Islamic school in Zariagi, Lokoja, leaving nine others, including two women, still in captivity. The abduction, which occurred on April 27, triggered a massive joint operation by security agencies to locate and free the victims. The rescued children include Sultan, Zeidah, Ahmed, Yusuf, Farooq, Museen, Mustapha, Hasheem, Mohammed, Toheer, Abdulmumin, Abdulazeem, Mahmud, Ameerah, Firdaus, Tabarakallah, and Ibrahim. Their safe return comes after days of intense search and rescue efforts across the region.
The remaining nine captives are Habibullah, Shakir, Ahmed, Abdulhammed, Mubarak, Sultannah, Zulaiha, and the two wives of the school owner, Nana-Hawa and Halimat. Security operatives continue to pursue the kidnappers, combing through nearby forests and tracking movements in the surrounding areas. Authorities have intensified surveillance and deployed additional personnel to strategic locations, including Kabba Junction and Zariagi, where stop-and-search operations are ongoing to prevent further abductions and intercept any fleeing suspects.
The incident involved 23 students who were taken from the orphanage/Islamic school in Zariagi, a facility the government has stated operates illegally. This has raised concerns about the regulation of private educational institutions in the state and the safety of vulnerable children. The abduction has also sparked public outcry, with parents and community leaders demanding stronger security measures and accountability from authorities.
Security agencies have maintained a high profile in the affected areas, working closely with local leaders and intelligence units to gather information. The rescue operation is seen as a significant breakthrough, but the continued captivity of nine individuals remains a major concern. Families of the remaining victims are anxiously awaiting news, while security forces remain committed to their safe recovery.
The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in parts of Nigeria, particularly in areas prone to kidnapping and armed banditry. It also underscores the need for improved coordination between security agencies and better oversight of private institutions that serve children. As the search continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The government has promised to take decisive action against those responsible and to ensure justice for the victims and their families. The rescue of 17 pupils is a positive step, but the focus now shifts to securing the release of the remaining captives. The situation remains fluid, and security forces are prepared to act swiftly to bring the operation to a successful conclusion.
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