The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the terrorist attack on Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, which claimed three lives, while commending security forces for preventing the mass abduction of students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the state government disclosed that the attackers, who reportedly disguised themselves in military uniforms, invaded the community in an attempt to deceive residents and carry out their operation.
The government extended its condolences to the families of the three victims, the people of Iluke Community and the entire Bunu District, describing the incident as a painful loss.
Despite the tragedy, the government praised the swift intervention, bravery and professionalism of military personnel and local security operatives, whose response prevented the attackers from abducting students and causing further casualties.
According to the statement, the assailants disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and had begun leading students into the bush before security operatives engaged them in a fierce gun battle.
The government said the superior firepower and courage displayed by the security personnel led to the successful rescue of all the students, who were returned safely without injury.
During the operation, one of the attackers was reportedly neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds. Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are intensifying efforts to bring all those connected with the attack to justice.
The state government expressed appreciation to the military, local vigilantes, hunters and other security personnel whose commitment and sacrifice helped avert what it described as a potentially devastating mass abduction.
It also assured residents that it is closely monitoring developments in the affected community and working with relevant security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area. Additional security measures, it said, would be announced in due course.
The government urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of security operations by providing timely and credible information that could aid efforts to combat criminal elements.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the government declared that Kogi State would not yield to acts of terror and vowed to continue supporting coordinated security operations against criminal groups.
The statement concluded by sympathising with the bereaved families and expressing solidarity with the people of Iluke Community as security agencies intensify efforts to restore normalcy and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
The statement was signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kogi State.