Armed bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday morning. They killed three people, including a vice principal, a six-year-old child, and an elderly resident.
The attack happened at about 10:00 a.m. and caused panic in the school and surrounding community. Witnesses and security reports indicate that the attackers arrived in large numbers. They rode about 40 motorcycles into the community.
The armed group who stormed the school and nearby areas appeared to target students and residents for abduction.
Residents fled as gunshots rang out across the area.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the identities of the victims; Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke, Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70 years old and Sunday Ayele, a six-year-old child.
The attack left the community in shock and mourning.
The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division received a distress call and quickly mobilised security teams.
Police officers, the Police Mobile Force, military personnel, and local vigilantes responded to the attack.
Security forces engaged the bandits in a gun battle and the attackers later fled into nearby forests.
A security source confirmed that one bandit died during the exchange of fire and one security operative also sustained injuries.
Authorities said they have not confirmed any mass abduction from the incident, though police stated that investigations are still ongoing as they continue to assess the situation to verify if any persons are missing.
Officials urged residents to stay calm while checks continue.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police ordered intensified operations in the area.
Security teams now conduct bush-combing operations across surrounding forests and caried out patrols to prevent further attacks.
Police urged residents to share credible information that could help track the fleeing suspects.
The attack has renewed concerns about insecurity in rural parts of Kogi State. Schools and remote communities remain vulnerable to armed groups.
Residents of Iluke Bunu continue to mourn the victims. They also call for stronger security presence in the area.
Authorities promised to continue operations until the attackers are apprehended.
