By STEPHEN ADELEYE

The Kogi Government says 15 pupils abducted from an unregistered orphanage/school facility in Zariagi, in the state, have been rescued.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, on Monday in Lokoja.

Fanwo said that efforts are ongoing to free the remaining victims, including the proprietor’s wife.

“The facility, Dahallukitab Group of Schools, operated illegally in a remote, bushy location along the Kabba Junction axis without registration or notification to authorities.

“The attack occurred late April 26, when gunmen stormed the premises and whisked away 23 pupils, including the proprietor’s wife.

“Security operatives led by the Nigeria Police Force, backed by other agencies, responded promptly, rescuing 15 pupils.” he said.

Fanwo commended the “gallantry and professionalism” of the operatives, saying their coordinated response significantly curtailed the impact.

The government raised concerns over unregistered institutions running in isolated areas, warning that such setups pose “serious security risks” in the current environment.

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

He urged operators of orphanage homes and schools to comply strictly with existing regulations and engage authorities for proper security assessment and protection.

He reaffirmed government’s “uncompromising commitment to the protection of lives and property”.

He added that security operations remain active to bring the situation under full control. (NAN)