Gunmen Abduct Children from Nigerian Orphanage
Gunmen stormed an orphanage in north-central Nigeria, abducting 23 children and the wife of the facility’s proprietor, sparking widespread concern and outrage. According to #GhanaNews, the attack occurred at the Dahallukitab Group of Schools in Lokoja, Kogi State, an isolated area with limited security presence.
The Kogi State Government confirmed that 15 children were rescued following a prompt and coordinated response by security agencies, while eight remain in captivity. The government condemned the attack, describing it as “unfortunate and avoidable,” and urged operators of orphanages and schools to comply with existing regulations and engage authorities for formal security assessments.
According to Kogi’s Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, the orphanage was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration or knowledge of relevant authorities. The attack has raised fears about the safety of vulnerable populations, particularly children, in Nigeria’s insecure regions.
The incident is part of a growing trend of mass kidnappings in Nigeria, with armed groups targeting schools, orphanages, and other institutions for ransom. The government has made efforts to address the issue, but insecurity persists, fueled by poverty, unemployment, and political instability.
The international community has condemned the attack, with human rights groups urging Nigerian authorities to prioritize the safety and welfare of all children. The government has assured that intensive operations are underway to secure the safe return of the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
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Source: Stella Sunu
