Suspected bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday, killing a vice principal, a six-year-old child, and another resident.
As a result, the community has been plunged into grief and fear. Residents said the attackers stormed the area and opened fire, forcing students, teachers, and other community members to run for safety.
Furthermore, the attack has renewed concerns about the security of schools and rural communities across the state.
According to reports, the attackers arrived on about 40 motorcycles before advancing toward the school and nearby homes.
Consequently, panic spread across the community as residents sought shelter. Witnesses described the situation as chaotic, with many people abandoning their daily activities to escape danger.
Security officials believe the gunmen intended to kidnap students and residents. In recent years, criminal groups have increasingly targeted schools and communities for ransom-related abductions.
However, security forces responded quickly after receiving distress calls from residents.
The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised officers and coordinated a joint operation involving police personnel, military troops, tactical units, and local vigilante groups.
Shortly afterward, security operatives confronted the attackers and engaged them in a fierce gun battle. Their swift intervention disrupted the criminals’ plans and prevented a larger tragedy.
Meanwhile, residents praised the security teams for acting promptly during the attack.
Despite the security response, the attack claimed three lives. The victims included a vice principal, a six-year-old child, and another resident.
According to community members, the vice principal dedicated his life to educating young people and supporting academic development. Therefore, his death has left students, colleagues, and parents devastated.
In addition, the death of the six-year-old child has sparked widespread outrage. Residents described the incident as both heartbreaking and unacceptable.
After the gun battle, the bandits fled into nearby forests. Subsequently, security operatives launched search operations to locate the suspects and prevent further attacks.
Authorities have also increased surveillance in vulnerable areas. Furthermore, security agencies have assured residents that they will continue pursuing the attackers until they are apprehended.
At the same time, investigators have begun gathering intelligence and evidence to identify everyone involved in the attack.
Meanwhile, community leaders, parents, and teachers have called for stronger security measures around schools and rural communities.
They argue that repeated attacks could disrupt education and create long-term fear among students. Therefore, they have urged the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen their presence in the area.
As investigations continue, authorities have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice. They also promised to improve security and restore confidence among residents.
