Panic swept through Iluke Bunu in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday after armed gunmen attacked the community, killing three people, including a school vice principal, during an attempted abduction of students sitting for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The attack occurred on the morning of June 10 when a large number of armed assailants reportedly stormed Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, and surrounding areas. According to security authorities, the attackers arrived on about 40 motorcycles and were believed to have intended to abduct students and residents.
The incident caused widespread panic as students and residents fled for safety amid heavy gunfire.
Victims of the attack have been identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement issued by its spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat. The command said the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response involving police personnel, tactical units, military operatives and local vigilante groups after distress calls were received.
Security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee into nearby bushes. One of the suspected gunmen was reportedly killed during the exchange, while a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
Amid initial fears of a mass abduction, the Kogi State Government said security forces successfully foiled the attackers’ plans. In a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the government disclosed that the gunmen, who allegedly disguised themselves in military uniforms, disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to move students into the bush. However, military personnel, local vigilantes, hunters and other security operatives responded swiftly and rescued all affected students unharmed.
“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,” the statement read.
The government further stated that security agencies have launched operations to track down the fleeing attackers and strengthen security across the area.
Wednesday’s attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have affected communities in Kogi West in recent weeks, raising fresh concerns about security in the region and the safety of schools during national examinations.
Residents have called on both state and federal authorities to increase security presence in vulnerable communities and prevent further attacks on schools and civilians.