The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, has successfully rescued the remaining eight students from Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State. These students had been kidnapped by terrorists, causing widespread concern and anxiety.
The kidnapping incident occurred on the night of Thursday, May 9, 2024, when armed men stormed the university and abducted numerous students. While initial rescue efforts saw 20 students safely returned, tragically, two students, James Michael Anajuwe and Musa Hussein, lost their lives.
The breakthrough in this case came when a joint operation by the Army and security operatives located the remaining students in a dense forest near Oro Ago village in Kwara State. According to a statement released on Sunday, June 2, 2024, the rescue mission was a result of intense and meticulous searches through nearby forests and villages.
The search concentrated on areas like Gbugu, Pategi, and Oro Ago, including Babasango and Babanla. The troops tracked the movements of the terrorists, who, upon realizing they were about to be captured, abandoned the students and fled into the forest. The students were then safely evacuated and handed over to the Kogi State Government.
This operation highlights the dedication and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in protecting citizens and combating terrorism. Their quick and decisive actions not only saved lives but also sent a powerful message to terrorists in the region.
The public is encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency. Community cooperation is vital in the ongoing fight against terrorism and criminal activities.
Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the successful rescue of the students and expressed profound gratitude to everyone involved. He highlighted the significant support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who mobilized resources for the rescue operation, and the National Security Adviser, whose commitment was crucial.
Fanwo also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, the Director General of DSS, the Inspector General of Police, and all officers and men of the Armed Forces. Special appreciation was given to the pilots and the local hunters who played a part in the rescue.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State expressed immense gratitude to Governor AbdulRahmam AbdulRazak of Kwara State for his cooperation and support, which were vital to the operation’s success. This collaboration has strengthened the bond between Kogi and Kwara States.
Now that the students have been rescued, the Kogi State Government is focused on recalibrating its security measures and enhancing the Safe School Initiative. The state prides itself on having the lowest number of out-of-school children in the North and is committed to maintaining safe and secure schools to ensure every child has access to education.
Fanwo reiterated that Kogi State has implemented the Child Rights Act and is dedicated to defending children’s right to quality education. In Kogi State, education is free up to the secondary school level, and the government pays for students to take all necessary exams, reflecting a budgetary commitment that exceeds UNESCO’s benchmark for education.
In his message, Governor Ododo urged citizens to continuously support security efforts by providing intelligence to prevent crime, which is safer and more effective. He emphasized that collective effort is essential to defeat banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in society.
Victoria Ibiama
