By Seun Ibiyemi
The Kogi State Government has confirmed the death of three residents following an attack by suspected bandits on Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, while commending security forces for preventing what could have been a mass abduction of students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government described the attack as a tragic incident carried out by criminal elements who disguised themselves in military uniforms to gain access to the community.
The government expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Iluke Community over the loss of lives.
According to the statement, the attackers disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and reportedly began forcing students into the bush before security personnel intervened.
Government sources disclosed that military personnel, local vigilantes, hunters and other security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, successfully rescuing all the students without injuries.
The state government praised the security forces for their swift response, courage and professionalism, noting that their actions prevented a potentially devastating mass kidnapping.
“Reports available to Government indicate that the bandits disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and had already begun marching students into the bush when security operatives engaged them in a fierce gun battle,” the statement said.
It added 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 and are intensifying efforts to apprehend all individuals connected with the attack.
The government commended the military, local vigilantes, hunters and other security personnel for their sacrifice and dedication to protecting lives and property.
“Kogi State owes a debt of gratitude to the security personnel whose patriotism and commitment to duty saved innocent lives and prevented what could have been a devastating mass abduction,” the statement noted.
The state government also assured residents that it is working closely with security agencies to strengthen security presence in the affected area and prevent future attacks.
It urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies.
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Reaffirming its commitment to combating insecurity, the government declared that criminal elements would not be allowed to undermine the peace and stability of the state.
“Let it be clearly stated that Kogi State will not submit to terror. Criminal elements seeking to undermine the peace and security of our State will continue to meet a determined, coordinated, and uncompromising response from security agencies and the Government,” the statement said.
The government reiterated its sympathy to the bereaved families and pledged continued support for the affected community as efforts continue to restore calm and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
