Residents of Iluke community in Bunu District, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, are calling for urgent government intervention after armed bandits attacked the area, killing three people, including a secondary school vice principal.
The attackers struck in the early hours of Wednesday, leaving the community in shock and deep mourning.
One of the victims was identified as Mr. Gani Anifowose, Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke. Two other residents were also killed during the assault.
Community members said the gunmen operated for several hours, causing panic and forcing residents to flee for safety.
Some residents claimed that students who were preparing to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) English Language paper were seized by the attackers during the raid.
However, the Kogi State Government said security operatives successfully foiled what appeared to be an attempt to abduct a large number of students.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed that the attackers were dressed in military uniforms when they entered the community.
According to him, security personnel, supported by local vigilantes and hunters, responded swiftly and prevented the attackers from carrying out their plans.
“The unfortunate attack led to the death of three members of the community. Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the people of Iluke Community and the entire Bunu District over this painful loss,” the statement said.
Fanwo explained that intelligence reports indicated the attackers disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to force some students into the bush before security operatives engaged them in a gun battle.
He said all the affected students were rescued unharmed and safely returned to their families.
The commissioner further disclosed that one of the attackers was killed during the exchange of gunfire, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
The state government commended the military, local vigilantes, hunters and other security personnel whose intervention prevented further casualties and a possible mass kidnapping.
Fanwo assured residents that additional security measures were being put in place to protect the area and prevent future attacks.
He also urged members of the public to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could assist ongoing investigations.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state while expressing sympathy to the families affected by the tragedy. :::
