The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of the remaining nine victims abducted from the Tajudeen Islamic Foundation and Children’s Home alongside the Daarulkitab Islamic Training Center in Adavi Local Government Area.
The victims were rescued during coordinated search-and-rescue operations involving troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
The development comes after 17 victims were earlier rescued following an attack by suspected bandits on the Zariagi community, where 26 persons were abducted.
Confirming the latest rescue in a statement, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the operation as a major breakthrough in efforts to secure the release of all abducted victims.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out in the early hours of May 6, 2026, around the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja Local Government Area.
“The operation led to the safe recovery of five boys, two girls, and two adult females from the Agbaja Forest axis in Lokoja Local Government Area,” the statement said.
The government added that the rescued victims had been evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment and medical attention.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation, praising their professionalism and commitment to protecting lives and property.
“The governor also acknowledged the strength and resilience of the victims and their families, reiterating that the safety and security of all residents remain the top priority of his administration,” the statement added.
Ododo said the successful operation reflected the government’s resolve to deny criminal groups any foothold within the state.
“This successful operation underscores our determination to ensure that criminal elements have no foothold in Kogi State. We will continue to strengthen our security architecture, deepen intelligence gathering, and provide the necessary support for our security agencies to act swiftly and decisively,” the governor stated.
The governor also expressed appreciation to Bola Tinubu for supporting security efforts in the state, while commending heads of security agencies for sustained collaboration.
The Kogi State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against kidnapping and violent crimes, urging residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.
Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest those responsible for the abduction.
