Army tracking abductors of Kogi students, commander says

Nigerian Army troops are actively tracking the abductors of four people, including two students, who were seized from an examination center in Kogi State. The Commanding Officer of the 21 Battalion, Godiya Monde, confirmed that the gunmen have made contact, and efforts are underway to trace their location.

"They’ve made some calls so far. We are tracking them to see where they are. I’m assuring you, we’re going to rescue those children," Monde stated. The victims include two students, the school principal, and a supervisor for the National Examination Council (NECO) examination. Troops have been deployed into the bush to search for the assailants and have sealed off all identified escape routes to prevent the victims from being moved further into the forest.

“

They’ve made some calls so far. We are tracking them to see where they are. I’m assuring you, we’re going to rescue those children.

The incident occurred at a school in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area, which is described as a "miracle center" for external candidates taking the Literature in English paper. The remote location of the school, however, contributed to a delay in the military's response to the distress call. "The issue is that this school is definitely isolated, and yeah, it’s actually tagged as a miracle centre for the students," Monde explained.

Upon arrival, troops discovered exam scripts scattered on the ground, confirming that an attack had taken place. The attackers stormed the school on Tuesday evening while candidates were taking the NECO examination. While the Kogi State Police Command initially reported that one abducted student had been freed, the army commander's statement indicates that efforts are still focused on tracing the abductors and rescuing all four victims.

“

The issue is that this school is definitely isolated, and yeah, it’s actually tagged as a miracle centre for the students.