Kogi vice principal, three others die in bandits, military clash

A Vice Principal, two residents and a bandit have been confirmed dead following a fierce clash between security operatives and armed attackers in Iluke community, Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The deadly attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, plunged the agrarian community into mourning and renewed fears over rising insecurity in parts of the state.

Among those killed was Gani Anifowose, Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke, who was reportedly caught in the violence alongside two other residents when heavily armed assailants stormed the community.

Residents said the attackers, suspected to be bandits, operated for several hours, firing sporadically and causing panic as families fled their homes in search of safety.

The situation became more alarming after reports emerged that some students preparing to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) English Language paper were seized by the attackers during the invasion.

The development sparked fears of a mass abduction similar to incidents recorded in other parts of the country.

However, the Kogi State Government said a swift response by security operatives prevented what could have turned into a major tragedy.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the government disclosed that the attackers disguised themselves in military uniforms in an attempt to gain easy access to the community and execute their operation.

According to the government, the gunmen disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to force students into the bush before security personnel engaged them in a gun battle.

“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.

It explained that military personnel, supported by local vigilantes, hunters and other security operatives, confronted the attackers and successfully rescued all the students unharmed.

The government further disclosed that one of the attackers was killed during the exchange of gunfire, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.

“The swift intervention of security forces prevented a mass abduction and saved the lives of innocent students who were targeted by the criminals,” the government stated.

Meanwhile, the government commended the courage and professionalism displayed by the security personnel and local volunteers whose actions helped contain the attack and prevent further casualties.

Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with authorities expressing confidence that those responsible for the attack would soon be apprehended and prosecuted.

The government further announced plans to strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities across the state to forestall future attacks.

Meanwhile, residents of Iluke have appealed to both the state and federal governments to deploy additional security personnel to the area, warning that repeated attacks were threatening education, farming activities and the general safety of residents.

The Kogi State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that criminal elements would not be allowed to undermine peace and stability in the state.