Kogi Government Confirms Rescue of Abducted Lokoja Orphanage Victims »

The Kogi State Government has confirmed the successful rescue of all victims abducted from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Lokoja, bringing relief to families and residents following the incident.

In a statement issued on May 6, 2026, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, disclosed that troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, working in collaboration with other security agencies and on behalf of the state government, rescued the remaining victims during a coordinated operation carried out in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to the statement, the operation led to the rescue of five boys, two girls, and two adult women from the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The government stated that the rescued victims have been evacuated to a military medical facility where they are currently receiving medical attention and care.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army as well as other security agencies involved in the rescue mission, praising their professionalism, courage, and commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

The governor also sympathized with the victims and their families, applauding their resilience during the ordeal while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting residents across the state.

Ododo stated that the successful rescue operation demonstrates the determination of his administration to deny criminal elements any safe haven in the state. He added that the government would continue to strengthen security architecture, improve intelligence gathering, and support security agencies to respond swiftly to threats.

The governor further appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support towards maintaining security and stability in the state, while also acknowledging the cooperation of heads of security agencies nationwide.

The state government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against kidnapping and violent crimes, urging residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies.

It also assured the public that efforts were ongoing to track down and prosecute those responsible for the abduction.