The Kogi State Government has announced the safe return of all those kidnapped from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Lokoja.
The confirmation was made in a statement published on Wednesday in Lokoja by the state commissioner for information and communications, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo.
Chronicle NG reports that gunmen stormed the orphanage on April 26 and stole 23 children, including the proprietor’s wife.
The authorities had previously verified the rescue of 15 victims on April 27 following increased security operations throughout the state.
According to Fanwo, the last nine victims were released during a rescue effort that began early Wednesday morning.
He praised the move as a significant step forward against criminal groups operating within the state, as well as a source of relief for impacted families.
According to him, personnel from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade spearheaded the coordinated search-and-rescue mission, which was supported by other security agencies.
“The operation, carried out in the Agbaja Forest axis of Lokoja Local Government Area, resulted in the safe recovery of five boys, two girls, and two adult females.
“The rescued victims have been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving proper medical care and attention,” Fanwo said.
Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, the state governor, lauded officers and personnel from the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their professionalism and bravery.
The governor also praised the victims and their families for their strength during the difficult experience.
“The safety and security of all residents remain the foremost priority of our administration. This successful operation underscores our determination to ensure that criminal elements have no foothold in Kogi.
“We will continue to strengthen our security architecture, deepen intelligence gathering, and support security agencies to act swiftly and decisively,” Ododo said.
The governor also praised President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to maintain security and stability in Kogi.
He praised the leaders of national security agencies for their ongoing collaboration and coordinated response to violent crimes.
He underlined the state government’s zero-tolerance policy on kidnapping and other violent criminal activity throughout Kogi.
Ododo advised locals to remain cautious and provide security agents with timely and credible information that can avert future assaults.
He informed the people that measures were on to apprehend the criminals and ensure their prosecution.
