By Isiaka Mustapha, Abuja
Four individuals abducted during an attack on an unauthorised examination centre in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, have been rescued by security operatives following a coordinated operation involving multiple agencies.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo,
disclosed this in a statement, noting that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo
immediately directed security agencies to mobilise resources and secure the release of the victims after receiving reports of the incident.
According to the Commissioner, the Governor instructed the State
Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (retd.), to coordinate a
joint operation involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State
Services, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilante groups and other
security stakeholders.
Fanwo explained that the operation drew support from personnel of the
12 Brigade and 21 Battalion of the Nigerian Army, the DSS, the police
and community-based security operatives, who launched an extensive
search across the forest where the victims were believed to have been
held.
He said the combined efforts of the security agencies restricted the
movement of the kidnappers and intensified pressure on them, leading
to the successful rescue of the victims.
“The school principal, the NECO official and the two students have all
regained their freedom safely. They are in stable condition and are
currently undergoing debriefing and routine medical assessment,” Fanwo
stated.
The commissioner revealed that security personnel remain deployed in
the area as efforts continue to track down those responsible for the
abduction.
He stressed that the state government would ensure that the
perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted in line with the law.
“Operations are still ongoing, and security agencies are determined to
ensure that those behind this criminal act are brought to justice.
Kogi State will not serve as a safe haven for criminals,” he said.
Fanwo commended the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by the
Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the police, local
vigilantes and other security agencies involved in the operation.
He described the successful rescue as another example of the
effectiveness of intelligence sharing and collaboration among security
institutions in addressing criminal activities.
The commissioner also expressed the appreciation of the Kogi State
Government to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the state’s
security initiatives.
According to him, the President directed relevant security agencies to
provide the necessary assistance required to facilitate the rescue
operation, a move that contributed significantly to its success.
“The support received from the Federal Government reinforced our
efforts and strengthened the resolve of security agencies working to
protect lives and property. We appreciate President Tinubu’s
commitment to the safety of Kogi residents,” he said.
Fanwo reaffirmed the commitment of the Ododo administration to
strengthening security across the state through enhanced intelligence
gathering, improved logistics and sustained collaboration among
security agencies.
