Authorities in Kogi State have confirmed the safe recovery of four people abducted during a violent incident in Olowa, located within the Dekina Local Government Area. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, officially shared the update on Thursday.
The successful operation followed direct instructions from Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. He tasked the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, to lead a joint mission involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and local vigilante groups. These teams systematically combed the forest, applying significant pressure on the captors.
As a result of this intense security presence, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and escaped. The group of victims—a school principal, a NECO official, and two students—returned to safety. They are currently undergoing medical evaluations and debriefings with security officials. Commissioner Fanwo praised the coordinated efforts of the security agencies and acknowledged the federal government’s backing under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
