Suspected bandits attacked an Islamic school and orphanage in Zariagi, Kogi State, on Sunday night, abducting 26 people. Security agencies have rescued 17 victims, while operations are ongoing to free the remaining nine.

Fear and grief have engulfed the community after armed men stormed the Tajudeen Islamic Foundation and Children’s Home, as well as the Daarulkitab Islamic Training Center, at about 11:00 p.m.

Residents said the gunmen fired sporadically to cause panic before abducting students and staff. The attackers reportedly overpowered local security at both institutions.

Dr Tajudeen Salihu, proprietor of the school and orphanage, confirmed that two matrons and seven students were among those taken.

“They came in large numbers and surrounded the compound. We are praying for the safe return of our children and staff,”_ Dr Salihu said.

For families of those still missing, the wait has been agonizing. Aishat Jamiyu, whose son remains in captivity, broke down in tears while pleading for urgent government intervention.

“My son is only 12. Please, the government should help us. We have not slept since Sunday,”_ she said.

Some victims managed to escape during the attack. Farouk Alhassan, one of the escapees, recounted his ordeal.

“They were shooting everywhere. I hid behind the kitchen and ran into the bush when they moved to another building,”_ Alhassan said.

Staff member Hajarat Isah described the moment the gunmen arrived.

“We heard gunshots and screaming. They took the matrons first, then some of the older students,”_ Isah said.

The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, confirmed the incident and said search-and-rescue operations have been intensified in forests around the area.

“We have rescued 17 victims so far. Our men, in collaboration with other security agencies and vigilantes, are combing the bushes to ensure the remaining victims are freed unhurt,”_ Kankarofi said.

The attack has renewed calls for improved security around schools and vulnerable communities in Kogi State, which has witnessed a rise in kidnappings in recent months.