Bandits have invaded Iluke Bunu in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area on Wednesday morning, killing three people including a school vice principal, in what authorities say was an attempted abduction of students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination.
The attackers stormed Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, around 10:00 a.m. on approximately 40 motorcycles. Police said the bandits appeared to be targeting UBE Iluke Bunu, where candidates were sitting for the ongoing WAEC exams.
Killed in the attack were Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Aharha-Bunu; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
Security forces responded after a distress call was received. Troops of the Nigerian Army stationed at nearby Suku-Kiri Bunu, officers from Kabba ‘A’ Police Division, Police Mobile Force operatives, the Command’s Tactical Teams, and local vigilantes engaged the attackers in a gun battle.
One bandit was neutralized during the exchange, police said. The remaining attackers fled into surrounding bush, with several reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds. One security operative was injured and is currently receiving medical treatment.
In a statement, Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer Afusat Oyiza Saliu said there is “no conclusive evidence of any successful mass abduction of students or residents,” though assessments are ongoing.
Commissioner of Police CP Nazir Bello Kankarofi has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols across the affected area. Joint teams of police, military personnel, and vigilantes are working to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Kabba-Bunu local government authorities confirmed the incident. Residents say the attack has heightened concerns over deteriorating security in the area.
The Command expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and urged the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.
