Tactical security forces in Ogun State have launched a massive search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of at least five students from Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade (GAPOSA), by armed assailants.
The invasion occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, when gunmen stormed an off-campus private hostel located along Paraga Road in Ipara-Remo—a neighbouring community where many students reside.
According to student witnesses, the gunmen operated for nearly 30 minutes, firing multiple gunshots into the air to instil fear.
While several quick-thinking students managed to evade capture by hiding above the building’s POP ceiling, others were forced out and whisked away into nearby foliage.
Police deploy tactical teams and intelligence assets
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, stated that a multi-agency security response was immediately activated upon receiving a distress signal.
“Immediately the distress report was received, the Police and other security agencies activated a coordinated operational response, deploying tactical teams and intelligence assets to the area. Rescue operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of those responsible,” Babaseyi noted.
The command appealed to parents, students, and community members to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified rumours on social media that could compromise the ongoing rescue mission. Members of the public were encouraged to report any suspicious activity via the state’s Gateway Shield toll-free hotline (0800 000 9111).
Gateway Polytechnic Student Union urges calm
In a joint statement issued by Students’ Union Government (SUG) President Akinpelu Bukunmi Timothy, General Secretary Salau Boluwaduro Saidat, and Public Relations Officer Matthew Francis Sonayon, student leaders confirmed that five students were taken during the assault.
The union pointed out that the affected hostel is situated in an isolated, heavily forested zone, making it particularly susceptible to security breaches. They reassured the public that no fatalities occurred during the raid and urged everyone to ignore exaggerated social media posts that trigger unnecessary panic.
In response to the tragedy, the management of Gateway ICT Polytechnic announced an immediate adjustment to the academic calendar.
All semester examinations originally slated for Thursday were cancelled.
Examinations scheduled for Friday remain on the timetable provisionally, pending further security reviews and official directives.
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