Bandits Raid Orphanage, Abduct Pupils in Kogi
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Suspected bandits have kidnapped several pupils and a school proprietor’s wife after attacking a school that also operates as an orphanage in Kogi State.
The incident took place late Sunday night at Dahallukitab Group of School in Zariagi, a community near Kabba Junction along the Lokoja–Okene road in Adavi Local Government Area. According to reports, the attackers entered the premises and opened fire before taking their victims to an unknown location.
Residents said the attack started at about 10:30 p.m. and caused panic across the area.
“It was shocking. We started hearing gunshots from that area late in the night,” a resident of a nearby village, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“This morning, we heard that the gunmen attacked the orphanage and school, abducting pupils, the proprietor’s wife, and some staff.”
Authorities confirmed that 23 pupils and the proprietor’s wife were taken during the raid. The Kogi State Government, however, said security operatives have rescued 15 of the victims.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described the attack as regrettable and preventable.
“The incident occurred late on April 26, 2026, when unknown gunmen invaded the premises and abducted 23 pupils alongside the wife of the proprietor,” the statement said.
Fanwo explained that security agencies, led by the Nigeria Police Force with support from other units, responded quickly to the situation. He noted that their efforts led to the rescue of some victims, while operations continue to secure the release of those still held.
He praised the security personnel for their swift response and coordination, which he said reduced the extent of the damage.
The state government also raised concern about the growing number of unregistered schools and orphanages located in remote areas. It warned that such facilities are exposed to security risks.
“Operating orphanages and schools in remote areas without proper registration and notification to authorities poses serious risks, especially in the current security climate,” the statement added.
“Such practices not only undermine safety standards but also expose innocent children to avoidable dangers.”
The government urged operators of similar institutions to comply with regulations and work closely with authorities to improve security.
As of the time this report was filed, the Kogi State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the attack. Attempts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not answered.