The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of four people abducted during an attack on an unauthorized National Examinations Council (NECO) examination centre in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area.
The victims, a school principal, a NECO official and two students were freed on Thursday, July 16, 2026, following a coordinated security operation ordered by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Fanwo said the governor directed the State Security Adviser, retired Commander Jerry Omodara, to lead a joint mission involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and other security agencies.
Fanwo said sustained pressure from the combined security team forced the kidnappers to abandon the victims and flee during an intensive forest operation.
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He confirmed that all four victims were rescued unharmed and are undergoing medical evaluation and security debriefing.
Security operatives have remained in the area to track down the fleeing suspects, with efforts continuing to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Fanwo commended the security agencies for their coordinated response and also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for providing federal support that reinforced the rescue mission.
He said the Ododo administration would continue to strengthen intelligence gathering, security logistics and inter-agency cooperation to combat crime and safeguard lives and property across Kogi State.