Kogi Govt Mourns Three Killed in Iluke Attack, Commends Troops for Rescuing WAEC Candidates
By: Zagazola Makama
The Kogi State Government has mourned the death of three residents killed during an attack on Iluke Community in the Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, while commending security forces for foiling an attempted mass abduction of students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The state government’s position was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Femi Fanwo.
Fanwo said the attack was carried out by armed criminals disguised in military uniforms, who invaded the community and killed three residents before targeting students sitting for the ongoing WAEC examination.
According to him, the attackers disrupted the examination and attempted to force the students into the bush.
He, however, said a swift response by military personnel and local security operatives led to a fierce gun battle with the attackers, resulting in the successful rescue of all the students.
“The criminal elements invaded Iluke Community and killed three members of the community. They also disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and attempted to abduct the students.
“However, the swift and gallant intervention of military personnel and local security forces led to a fierce exchange of fire that thwarted the abduction attempt.
“All the students were rescued unharmed and safely returned,” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that one of the attackers was neutralised during the operation, while several others escaped into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.
He added that security agencies had launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and were intensifying efforts to ensure their arrest.
Fanwo expressed the state’s condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack and assured residents that the government remained committed to protecting lives and property.
“The Kogi State Government extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the entire Iluke Community.
“We share in their grief and assure them that the sacrifices of those lost will not be forgotten,” he said.
The commissioner said the state government had directed security agencies to strengthen their presence in the affected area and intensify surveillance operations to prevent further attacks.
He reiterated the government’s resolve not to allow criminal elements undermine the peace and security being enjoyed in the state.
“Kogi State will not bow to terror. Criminal elements seeking to undermine the peace and security of our state will continue to face a determined, coordinated and uncompromising response from both the government and security agencies,” he said.
Fanwo urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while continuing to support security agencies with credible and timely information.
He noted that public cooperation remained critical to ongoing efforts to combat insecurity and protect communities across the state.
The commissioner also commended the military and other security personnel involved in the rescue operation for their courage, professionalism and timely intervention, which prevented what could have been a major tragedy.
