‎BREAKING: Kogi Kidnapped NECO Candidates, Principal Rescued

The Kogi State Government has announced the successful rescue of four persons abducted during a recent attack on a National Examinations Council (NECO) examination centre in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area.

‎The victims, comprising a school principal, a NECO official and two students, were freed following a coordinated security operation launched on the directive of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

‎Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed the development in a statement on Thursday, describing the rescue as the result of sustained pressure mounted by security operatives on the kidnappers.

‎According to Fanwo, Governor Ododo immediately ordered the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to coordinate a joint rescue mission involving personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilante groups and other security agencies.

‎He said the combined security team combed the forests where the victims were believed to have been held, forcing the kidnappers to abandon them and flee.

“Following the Governor’s directive, security operatives launched an intensive operation that led to the successful rescue of all four victims. The sustained pressure on the kidnappers compelled them to abandon their captives and escape,” Fanwo said.

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‎He added that although the victims had regained their freedom, security personnel remained in the forest to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure they face justice.

‎”The operation is still ongoing. Our resolve is unwavering—criminals will find no safe haven in Kogi State,” he stated.

‎Fanwo confirmed that the rescued principal, NECO official and two students were in good health and were undergoing security debriefing and routine medical examinations.

‎The commissioner commended the Nigerian Army, DSS, Police, local vigilantes and other security agencies for their professionalism and swift response, describing the operation as a strong example of effective inter-agency collaboration against insecurity.

‎He also conveyed the state government’s appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Kogi’s security efforts, noting that the President directed relevant security agencies to provide every necessary assistance to secure the victims’ release.

Fanwo reaffirmed the Ododo administration’s commitment to strengthening intelligence gathering, enhancing security logistics and deepening collaboration among security agencies to eliminate criminal activities across the state and safeguard residents.

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