Four kidnapped during NECO exams rescued – Kogi govt

The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of four individuals abducted during an attack on an examination centre in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area.

Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, attributing the success to a coordinated security operation ordered by Governor Ahmed Ododo immediately after the incident.

According to him, the governor directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to lead a joint rescue effort involving multiple security agencies.

“Shortly after the kidnapping incident, the Governor directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to coordinate the rescue operation. The State Security Adviser and the leadership of the 12 Brigade and the 21 Battalion of the Nigerian Army, the DSS, the Police and local security operatives stormed the forest to ensure the victims were rescued.

”Just this evening, while inspecting the Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the Kogi State Government to strengthen the fight against criminality, the Governor assured newsmen that every effort was being made to secure the release of the victims.

”A few hours later, the victims regained their freedom. The sustained pressure on the kidnappers and the saturation of the forest by heavily armed security personnel forced the criminals to abandon the victims and flee.

”Security operatives remain in the forest and the operation is still ongoing. We are determined to ensure that none of the criminals escapes justice. Our resolve is clear: anyone who chooses the path of crime in Kogi State will face the full weight of the law.

”We can confirm that the School Principal, the NECO official and the two students have all been rescued safely. They are hale and hearty and are currently with security agencies for debriefing and necessary medical checks.”

Fanwo commended the efforts of the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and local vigilante groups, describing the operation as a strong example of effective inter-agency collaboration.

He also expressed the state government’s appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the rescue effort.

”The President directed the heads of the security agencies to give Kogi every necessary support to rescue the victims. Today, that support has yielded the desired result. We are deeply grateful to Mr. President for standing firmly with Kogi State in our determination to protect lives and property,” he said.

The commissioner reiterated that the administration of Governor Ododo would continue to intensify efforts to eliminate criminal activities across the state, assuring residents of sustained investment in security and intelligence.