Vice Principal, 2 Others Killed As Terrorists On 40 Cycles Attack School In Kogi
An attack by armed terrorists on Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has left three persons dead, including the Vice Principal and a six-year-old child.
Police later reported that one attacker was also killed during the exchange of gunfire, while a member of the state’s joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
The attack, which occurred at about 10am on Wednesday, threw the community into mourning and heightened concerns over security in the area.
Those killed were identified as:
- Mr Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke
- Mr Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70 years and
- Sunday Ayele, aged six years.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, the Kogi State Police Command said a large number of armed bandits, operating on about 40 motorcycles, invaded the school with the suspected intention of abducting students and other residents.
The statement said the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response after receiving distress calls, deploying personnel from the police division, the Police Mobile Force, and tactical teams.
It added that military personnel and local vigilante groups already stationed in the area also joined the operation.
“The combined security operatives engaged the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bush.
“Preliminary findings indicate that there is presently no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or other residents.
“However, investigations and ongoing assessments are continuing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols in the affected area. According to the Command, joint security operatives are still conducting intensive operations to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
