Some suspected bandits on Sunday night invaded an unregistered orphanage and school facility in Zariagi, along the Kabba Junction axis of Lokoja, abducting 23 pupils, including the wife of the school’s proprietor.

However, 15 pupils out of the number have been rescued by security agencies.

Reacting to the incident, the state government condemned the attack, describing it as a serious security breach.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the facility, identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools, was operating illegally in a remote and bushy environment without registration or the knowledge of relevant government authorities and security agencies.

Preliminary reports revealed that the incident occurred late on Sunday when unknown gunmen abducted 23 pupils and the wife of the school’s proprietor.

Following the attack, security agencies led by the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State, alongside other operatives, launched a swift rescue operation. Their coordinated response led to the rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and apprehend those responsible.

The state government commended the security agencies for their gallantry, professionalism, and prompt action in responding to the situation.

It, however, warned against the operation of orphanages and schools in isolated areas without proper registration and notification to authorities, noting that such practices expose occupants to significant security risks.

The government reiterated the need for strict compliance with regulatory and safety protocols, urging operators of similar facilities to engage with appropriate agencies for proper oversight and security assessment.

While assuring residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the government stated that security operations remain active to bring the situation under control.

Fanwo commended the gallantry and professionalism of the security agencies, noting that their swift and coordinated response significantly curtailed the impact of the attack.

While assuring that efforts are being intensified to rescue the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice, the government raised concerns over the operation of unregistered institutions in isolated locations.

He warned that establishing orphanages, schools, and similar facilities in vulnerable areas without proper registration and notification to authorities poses serious security risks, especially in the prevailing security environment.

“The operation of such facilities outside regulatory oversight not only undermines safety standards but also exposes innocent children to avoidable dangers,” the Commissioner stated.

The government, therefore, urged operators of orphanages and schools to comply strictly with existing regulations and engage relevant authorities for proper security assessment and protection.

Reaffirming its stance, the Kogi State Government assured residents of its uncompromising commitment to the protection of lives and property, adding that security operations remain active to bring the situation under full control. (TRIBUNE)

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