The Kogi state government has confirmed the successful rescue of all victims abducted from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Lokoja, bringing a reassuring end to a distressing incident.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, in a statement on Wednesday, said the rescue followed coordinated and sustained search-and-rescue operations by troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on behalf of and in support of the Kogi state government, and in collaboration with other security agencies.
Fanwo revealed that the remaining victims were successfully rescued in the early hours of May 6, 2026.
“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,” he said.
The rescued victims have since been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving proper medical care and attention.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo expressed profound appreciation to the gallant officers and men of the Nigerian Army and all security agencies involved in the operation. He commended their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property.
He also acknowledged the strength and resilience demonstrated by the victims and their families during this trying period, reiterating that the safety and security of all residents remains the foremost priority of his administration.
“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.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo further expressed deep gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast support toward sustaining security and stability in Kogi State.
He also appreciated the heads of security agencies across the country for their continued collaboration and commitment.
The Kogi state government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on kidnapping and all forms of violent crime and urged citizens to remain vigilant while cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
The government assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of this criminal act and ensure they are brought to justice.
