Three persons, including a vice principal and a six-year-old child, were killed after suspected bandits invaded Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday.
The attack, which occurred around 10 a.m., sparked panic in the community as heavily armed gunmen, reportedly riding about 40 motorcycles, stormed the area in what authorities believe was an attempted mass abduction.
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Police Command said security operatives swiftly responded after receiving distress calls. A joint team comprising police officers, tactical units, military personnel, and local vigilantes engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee into nearby bushes.
Police said there is no confirmed evidence that any students or residents were successfully abducted during the attack, although investigations are ongoing.
The victims were identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
The Command also disclosed that one bandit was killed during the exchange of gunfire, while a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment.
Security agencies have launched sustained operations to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks in the area.
