Residents of Iluke community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, have appealed for urgent government intervention following a deadly attack by armed assailants that claimed three lives, including a school vice principal.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, plunged the community into mourning and heightened fears over worsening insecurity in the area.
Among those killed was Mr. Gani Anifowose, Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke. He was reportedly murdered alongside two other residents during the assault.
Witnesses said the attackers operated for several hours, spreading panic and confusion across the community. Reports from residents also alleged that some students scheduled to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) English Language paper were taken away during the attack.
However, the Kogi State Government said security operatives successfully foiled an attempted mass abduction of students.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed that the attackers disguised themselves in military uniforms to gain access to the community.
According to the government, although three residents lost their lives, security personnel swiftly intervened and rescued students allegedly being led into the bush by the assailants.
“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 read.
The government praised the efforts of military personnel, local vigilantes, hunters and other security operatives, noting that their prompt response prevented further casualties and a possible mass kidnapping.
Fanwo stated that intelligence reports indicated the attackers disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to abduct students before security forces engaged them in a gun battle.
He added that all the students were rescued unharmed and safely returned following the operation. One of the attackers was reportedly killed, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
The state government said security agencies have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and vowed to bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
