Panic broke out on Wednesday in Iluke community, Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area in Kogi State after armed bandits launched a deadly attack that left three people dead, including a school vice principal, and led to the abduction of three students.
The early morning attack threw the entire community into shock and mourning, while also raising fresh concerns about worsening insecurity in the area.
Reports say the students who were preparing to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) English Language paper were among those targeted and taken away during the invasion.
The incident reportedly happened in the early hours of Wednesday, disrupting normal activities and forcing residents to flee for safety.
However, the Kogi State Government said security forces were able to stop what could have been a larger mass kidnapping of students during the attack.
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the attackers were said to have worn military uniforms to deceive residents before striking.
He confirmed that three members of the community were killed, while security operatives successfully rescued some students who were being taken away by the attackers.
“The unfortunate attack led to the death of three members of the community. The 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,” the statement read.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to track down the attackers and improve security in the area to prevent further incidents.