By Oiza Bello
Victims abducted during the recent attack on an unauthorized examination centre in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area, of Kogi State regained their freedom following a coordinated rescue operation by security agencies.
The rescued victims, comprising the school principal, a National Examinations Council (NECO) official and two students, were freed after intense pressure mounted on the kidnappers by a joint security team operating in the forest.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who disclosed the development in a statement, said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had immediately ordered a rescue mission after receiving reports of the abduction.
According to him, the Governor directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to coordinate a joint operation involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilante groups and other security operatives.
Mr. Fanwo explained that the sustained operation forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee, adding that security personnel have remained in the forest to track down the fleeing criminals.
He confirmed that all four victims were rescued safely and are currently undergoing debriefing and medical examination.
The Commissioner commended the gallantry and professionalism of the security agencies involved in the operation, describing the successful rescue as a reflection of effective collaboration in tackling insecurity.
He assured residents that the Ododo administration would continue to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve security logistics and deepen collaboration among security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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