The Kogi State Government has confirmed the successful recovery of four individuals who were seized during an attack on an examination venue in Olowa, located within the Dekina Local Government Area. Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, announced on Thursday that the operation was launched following direct orders from Governor Ahmed Ododo.
Upon hearing of the kidnapping, Governor Ododo instructed Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), the State Security Adviser, to organize a joint task force. This mission involved the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and local vigilante groups. These units conducted a sweep of the forest, placing significant pressure on the captors.
The intensive search and saturation of the area ultimately forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives. The victims—a school principal, a NECO representative, and two students—are currently undergoing medical evaluations and debriefing with security authorities. While the rescue has concluded, security forces remain in the forest to track down the perpetrators.
Commissioner Fanwo praised the unified effort of the various security agencies and highlighted the role of President Bola Tinubu, who instructed security chiefs to assist the state. The Kogi government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing security infrastructure and intelligence gathering to deter future criminal activity in the region.
