Gunmen Abduct 23 Children From Orphanage in Kogi State, Eight Still Missing

Gunmen have raided an orphanage in Lokoja, Kogi State, abducting 23 children in what authorities described as another disturbing case of mass kidnapping in Nigeria.

The attack occurred late Sunday at the Dahallukitab Group of Schools, an unregistered orphanage located in a remote and isolated part of the state capital.

Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed on Monday that security agencies launched a swift operation after the incident, leading to the rescue of 15 of the abducted children.

However, eight children remain in captivity, while the wife of the orphanage proprietor was also reportedly taken by the attackers.

Fanwo said security operatives were intensifying efforts to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims and bring those responsible to justice.

According to him, the orphanage was operating illegally without registration and was situated in a location unknown to the relevant authorities and security agencies.

He noted that the facility’s isolated location may have made it vulnerable to the attack.

Although the ages of the abducted children were not disclosed, officials referred to them as “pupils,” suggesting they were likely of kindergarten or primary school age.

No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.

Kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where security presence is weak and government oversight is limited.

The North Central region, including Kogi State, has witnessed a rise in violent attacks in recent months, with schools and vulnerable institutions becoming frequent targets.

The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity across the country, where threats range from armed banditry and insurgency to farmer-herder clashes and separatist violence.

In neighbouring Niger State, hundreds of students were kidnapped from a school in November in an attack security sources linked to Boko Haram.

Security agencies say ongoing operations are focused on rescuing the remaining victims and preventing further attacks in the area.