Three Killed as Security Forces Foil Mass Abduction of WAEC Candidates in Kogi
The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over a terrorist attack on Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of three residents and disrupted a West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) session.
According to the government, the attackers, described as criminal elements disguised in military uniforms, invaded the community in an apparent attempt to deceive residents and carry out a large-scale abduction.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said the state government was saddened by the loss of lives and extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Iluke Community, and the entire Bunu District.
The government, however, commended the swift intervention of military personnel, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security operatives whose actions prevented what could have become a major tragedy.
Reports made available to the government indicated that the attackers had stormed a venue where students were sitting for the ongoing WAEC examination and had begun leading the candidates into the bush before security forces confronted them.
A fierce gun battle reportedly ensued, during which security operatives successfully overpowered the attackers and rescued all the students unharmed.
“The superior firepower, professionalism, and courage of the security agents ensured that all the students were safely returned to their families,” the statement said.
The government disclosed that one of the bandits was neutralised during the operation, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds. Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are intensifying efforts to bring all those involved in the attack to justice.
Fanwo praised the sacrifices and patriotism of the security personnel who risked their lives to protect residents and avert a mass abduction.
The state government also assured residents that it is closely monitoring developments in the affected area and working with relevant security agencies to strengthen security presence in the community. Additional security measures, it said, would be announced in due course.
Residents were urged to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security operations by providing credible information that could aid efforts to combat criminal activities.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the government stated that Kogi State would not succumb to acts of terror and would continue to work with security agencies to maintain peace and security across the state.
The government further expressed solidarity with the people of Iluke Community and pledged continued support as efforts intensify to restore normalcy and ensure those responsible for the attack face the full weight of the law.
