Lokoja, Kogi State — Tragedy struck in Kogi State on Wednesday after armed bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, killing the school’s vice principal and two other persons while abducting three students.
The attack reportedly occurred during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), causing panic among students, teachers, and residents of the community.
According to local sources, the gunmen invaded the area in large numbers and opened fire indiscriminately, forcing students and examination officials to flee for safety. The attackers allegedly targeted locations around the school and nearby residential areas before escaping with the abducted students.
One of the victims was identified as Mr. Gani Anifowose, the Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke. Two other residents were also reportedly killed during the assault.
Witnesses said the attackers, some of whom were dressed in military-style uniforms, attempted a large-scale abduction before security operatives responded. Personnel from the police, military, local vigilante groups, and other security agencies were said to have engaged the bandits in a gun battle, preventing what could have been a more devastating attack.
Kogi State authorities confirmed that security forces have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects. Reports indicate that one of the attackers was neutralized during the confrontation, while others escaped into nearby forests.
The attack has sparked renewed concerns over the safety of schools and students, particularly as candidates continue to sit for national examinations across the country.
Residents of Iluke Bunu have called on the federal and state governments to strengthen security around educational institutions and vulnerable communities to prevent future attacks.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts were ongoing to rescue the abducted students and restore calm to the affected community.
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