Kogi Mourns Three Killed in Iluke-Bunu Attack, Security Forces Foil Abduction of WAEC Candidates

The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of three residents of Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area following an attack by suspected bandits who reportedly disguised themselves in military uniforms.

The government, however, commended the swift intervention of security personnel, local vigilantes, and hunters whose coordinated response thwarted what could have become a large-scale abduction of students sitting for the ongoing 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 incident as a tragic assault on innocent citizens and extended condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Iluke Community.

According to the statement, the attackers invaded the community under the guise of military personnel in an apparent attempt to deceive residents before launching their operation.

"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 over this painful loss," the statement said.

Fanwo disclosed that the assailants disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and had begun herding students into the bush when security operatives responded to distress calls and engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle.

The Commissioner praised the courage and professionalism displayed by the security forces, noting that their superior firepower forced the attackers to abandon their mission and flee.

"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. Owing to the superior firepower, professionalism and courage of the security agents, all the students were successfully rescued unharmed and returned to safety," he stated.

During the operation, security personnel reportedly neutralized one of the attackers, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The government said security agencies have launched an intensive manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are working to ensure that all those connected with the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.

Fanwo conveyed the state's appreciation to the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security operatives whose efforts prevented further loss of life and a potentially devastating mass kidnapping.

"Their sacrifice, patriotism, and commitment to duty saved innocent lives and prevented what could have been a devastating mass abduction," he said.

The Commissioner added that the state government is closely monitoring developments in the affected community and is collaborating with security agencies to strengthen security architecture in the area.

He disclosed that additional security measures would be announced in due course as part of ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

The government also appealed to residents to remain calm and vigilant while supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could aid ongoing operations against criminal elements.

Reaffirming the state's commitment to combating insecurity, Fanwo declared that Kogi would not succumb to threats posed by terrorists and criminal gangs.

"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," he stated.

The government reiterated its sympathy with the families of the deceased and assured residents of Iluke Community that every effort is being made to restore normalcy and bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.