NIGERIA: Kogi Mourns Three Killed In Iluke Attack, Hails Security Forces For Rescuing WAEC Candidates

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of three persons during a terrorist attack on Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, while commending security operatives for foiling what could have been a mass abduction of students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, released on Wednesday, the government disclosed that the attackers, who disguised themselves in military uniforms, invaded the community in an attempt to deceive residents and carry out their operation.

According to the statement, the assailants disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and had begun leading students into the bush before security personnel responded swiftly and engaged them in a fierce gun battle.

The government said the prompt intervention, bravery, and professionalism displayed by military personnel and local security forces prevented a major tragedy, as all the students were rescued unharmed and safely returned to their families.

While mourning the three community members who lost their lives during the attack, the government extended condolences to their families, the people of Iluke Community, and the entire Bunu District, describing the incident as painful and unfortunate.

The statement further revealed that one of the attackers was neutralised during the operation, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds. Security agencies, it added, have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are intensifying efforts to ensure that all those connected to the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.

The state government also expressed appreciation to the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security personnel whose sacrifices and commitment to duty helped save innocent lives and prevented what it described as a devastating mass abduction.

It noted that the government is closely monitoring developments in the affected community and is working with security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area. Additional measures, according to the statement, would be announced as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property.

The government urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid ongoing operations against criminal elements.

Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of citizens, the state government declared that Kogi would not surrender to criminal elements, assuring residents that security agencies would continue to respond decisively to threats against peace and security across the state.