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Nigerian troops rescue 21 kidnapped victims in Kogi forest

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 7 hours ago · 4:02 read · September 2, 2026

On Monday, troops from the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, alongside the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, local hunters, and vigilantes, conducted a joint operation in Kogi State. The mission successfully rescued 21 individuals who had been kidnapped and held in a forest. This development comes as Nigeria’s Vice-President reiterated the country’s strong stance against xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

Key takeaways

Nigerian troops and security agencies rescued 21 kidnapped victims from a forest in Kogi State through a coordinated joint operation.
Nigeria’s Vice-President condemned xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
INEC is investigating unauthorized names on the Nigeria Democratic Congress’s 2027 candidate list.
Security agencies are intensifying efforts to curb kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria’s high-risk regions.

How the rescue operation unfolded in Kogi State

The joint security operation in Kogi State targeted a forest known for harboring criminal elements, including kidnappers. According to military and police sources, intelligence reports indicated the presence of kidnapped victims in the area. The operation involved ground troops, aerial surveillance, and local support from hunters and vigilantes, who provided critical intelligence on the terrain and the kidnappers’ hideouts. The rescue was executed with minimal resistance, and all 21 victims were safely extracted. Officials have not disclosed the identities of the victims or the captors, citing ongoing investigations. The success of the operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in combating insecurity in Nigeria’s troubled regions.

Nigeria condemns xenophobic attacks in South Africa

Nigeria’s Vice-President has strongly condemned recent xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa, emphasizing that such violence will not be tolerated. The statement comes amid reports of renewed hostility against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in several South African cities. The Vice-President reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and called for urgent diplomatic intervention to address the root causes of the attacks. While the exact number of affected Nigerians remains unconfirmed, the government has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure their safety and repatriation if required. This stance aligns with Nigeria’s broader foreign policy objectives to foster peace and stability in Africa.

INEC investigates unauthorized names on NDC’s 2027 candidate list

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into claims that unauthorized names appeared on the Nigeria Democratic Congress’s (NDC) list of candidates for the 2027 general elections. The examination of records aims to verify the authenticity of the names and ensure compliance with electoral laws. INEC has not provided details on the number of disputed names or the potential impact on the party’s participation in the elections. The development underscores the commission’s commitment to maintaining transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Political analysts suggest that the investigation could lead to legal consequences for the party if irregularities are confirmed.

Security agencies intensify efforts to curb kidnapping in Nigeria

The rescue of 21 kidnapped victims in Kogi State reflects the Nigerian government’s renewed focus on tackling kidnapping and banditry across the country. Security agencies, including the military, police, and DSS, have been conducting joint operations in high-risk areas to dismantle criminal networks. Kidnapping for ransom remains a persistent challenge, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions. While the recent operation is a step in the right direction, experts argue that long-term solutions require addressing underlying issues such as poverty, unemployment, and weak governance. The government has pledged to sustain its efforts to restore security and protect citizens from criminal elements.

Diplomatic tensions rise as Nigeria and South Africa clash over Afrophobia

The renewed diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa over Afrophobic attacks highlight the broader challenges of regional security and migration in Africa. Nigeria’s strong condemnation of the violence reflects growing frustration among African nations over the lack of effective measures to protect foreign nationals. South Africa has faced criticism in the past for failing to curb xenophobic sentiments, despite government assurances. The situation has prompted calls for stronger regional cooperation to address the root causes of such attacks, including economic disparities and social tensions. Both countries are expected to engage in high-level discussions to de-escalate the situation and prevent further incidents.

What happens next

As Nigeria continues to address security challenges and diplomatic tensions, the government is expected to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and regional cooperation. The outcome of INEC’s investigation into the NDC’s candidate list will also be closely watched, as it could impact the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Nigeria and South Africa are likely to intensify to resolve the Afrophobia crisis and prevent further incidents.