Tragedy in Kogi as Attackers Kill School Vice Principal, Attempted Student Abduction Foiled

A wave of grief swept through Iluke community in Kogi State on Wednesday after armed assailants attacked the area, killing three residents, including a vice principal, and reportedly attempting to abduct students sitting for a WAEC examination.

The victims included Mr. Gani Anifowose, Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke, whose death has left residents and the education community in shock.

Witnesses said the attackers stormed the community in the early hours of the day and operated for hours, creating panic among residents.

Initial reports from community members suggested that some students scheduled to write the WASSCE English Language examination were taken away during the attack.

However, the Kogi State Government said a swift response by security personnel prevented a mass kidnapping.

In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Fanwo revealed that the attackers disguised themselves as military personnel before launching the operation.

According to him, security operatives engaged the assailants after they disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to move students into nearby bushes.

“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,” Fanwo stated.

He said all the affected students were rescued unharmed and safely returned following a fierce exchange of gunfire between security forces and the attackers.

The government also disclosed that one attacker was neutralised during the operation, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

Commending the military, local vigilantes, hunters and other security operatives, the state government said their intervention prevented a far greater tragedy.

Authorities have since intensified efforts to track down those responsible, while residents have been urged to remain calm and provide useful information to security agencies as investigations continue.

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