Igala Journalists Criticize Kogi Govt Over School Abduction

Igala journalists have criticized the Kogi State Government for its characterization of the Government Secondary School Olowa in Dekina Local Government Area as a "miracle center" after a recent abduction of candidates during the National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations. In a statement dated July 17, 2026, signed by Omonu Gowon Nelson, the forum described the government's remarks as "unguarded" and "defamatory," accusing officials of attempting to divert attention from the long-standing neglect of educational institutions in the state.

The journalists rejected the government's description and expressed gratitude to NECO for clarifying that the Government Secondary School Olowa is a legitimate examination center, emphasizing that the abduction was a criminal act unrelated to examination malpractice. The forum called for the Kogi State Government to withdraw its description, apologize to the school community, and urgently address the poor infrastructure in schools across Kogi East.