Armed bandits stormed Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu LGA of Kogi State on Wednesday morning, killing three people and disrupting ongoing WAEC examinations.

According to a statement by Kogi Police spokesperson ASP Saliu Afusat, the attack occurred at about 10:00am. A large group of gunmen, said to be riding on about 40 motorcycles, invaded the school with the suspected aim of abducting students and residents.

The victims were identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; 70-year-old Sunday Jacob Alhassan; and 6-year-old Sunday Ayele.

Security forces responded swiftly. The DPO of Kabba ‘A’ Division mobilized police personnel, the Police Mobile Force, tactical units, military operatives and local vigilantes. The combined team engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes.

Police confirmed that one of the bandits was neutralized during the exchange, while a joint security operative sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment.

On abductions: Kogi Police said there is “presently no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or other residents,” though investigations are ongoing. Kogi State Government said all students were rescued unharmed after security operatives foiled the attempted mass kidnapping.

The incident has heightened fears over school security in the area, especially with WASSCE exams in progress.

Sources: Kogi State Police Command via Punch, Reuters; Kogi State Govt statement by Commissioner Kingsley Fanwo