Suspected bandits on Wednesday invaded Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing three persons, including a vice principal, a six-year-old child and a 70-year-old man.
The attack, which occurred around 10 a.m., threw the community into mourning and heightened concerns over rising insecurity in the area.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, ASP Saliu Afusat, said a large number of armed bandits riding about 40 motorcycles stormed the school and surrounding community, allegedly intending to abduct students and residents.
According to the police, the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response involving police personnel, operatives of the Police Mobile Force, tactical units, military personnel and local vigilantes.
The command said security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes.
“Preliminary findings indicate that there is presently no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or other residents. However, investigations and ongoing assessments are continuing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement said.
The police identified the victims as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
The command also disclosed that one of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police ordered sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols across the affected area. Security operatives have continued intensive operations to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
The police urged residents to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and security operations.
Bandits kill Vice Principal, 6-year- old Child, One other in Kogi school attack
