Emmanuel lkpeama
The Kogi State Government has announced the rescue of 21 children, aged 6-17, intercepted while being trafficked into the state.
The National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies foiled the operation in Yagba East.
Investigator news reports that security operatives in Kogi State intercepted a truck carrying 21 children, aged 6-17, suspected to be victims of child trafficking.
Several suspects were arrested, including individuals claiming the children were for an “Islamic school.”
The rescued children are receiving support, and investigations are ongoing. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs to care for the victims.
In a press statement on Tuesday 9, November by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications, reads, “The Kogi State Government wishes to inform the public of the successful interception of a group of under-aged children trafficked into the State, in what is suspected to be a covert recruitment attempt for banditry training.
“At about 1500hrs on December 5, 2025, eagle-eyed security operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Yagba Area Command in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, acting on credible intelligence from community hunters, intercepted a truck conveying 21 children aged between 6 and 17 years into Kogi State.
“Initial investigations revealed that the children had been moved from different northern states under suspicious circumstances by adults who could not provide legitimate justification for their movement.”
“Several suspects linked to the trafficking operation have been arrested, including individuals who claimed they were transporting the children to establish an informal “Islamic school” within Yagba East.
“Further arrests were made as security operatives intensified surveillance within the area, uncovering additional persons allegedly connected to the movement of the minors. Some of the suspects were also found with items raising significant security concerns.”
“The rescued children have since been transferred to the State Command of the NSCDC in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of all persons involved.”
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State, has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the underaged victims, ensure their wellbeing, and provide the necessary psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.”
“Upon completion of profiling and verification, the children will be handed over to their respective State Governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families.”
“Meanwhile, all individuals found culpable in this trafficking operation will be prosecuted in line with Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.”
“The Kogi State Government reiterates its uncompromising stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration, and any form of security threat.
“The administration of Governor Ododo will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every part of the State.”the statement reads
