Kogi police say bandit attack on Iluke school repelled, three killed

The Kogi State Police Command says it has repelled an armed attack by suspected bandits who invaded Iluke community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area during the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Adusat Salihu, the command said the attackers targeted Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, where students were sitting for the WAEC English Language examination at the time of the incident.

According to the police, the attackers arrived the community in large numbers, reportedly operating on about 40 motorcycles, with the intention of abducting students and other residents.

The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba “A” Division was said to have immediately mobilised officers alongside personnel of the Police Mobile Force and tactical units, while military personnel and local vigilantes also joined the response.

The joint security team engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes, while efforts were made to secure the school and surrounding community.

The command said preliminary findings did not confirm a successful mass abduction, adding that investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the attack.

However, it confirmed that three persons were killed during the incident, identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and a six-year-old boy, Sunday Ayele.

The police also said one of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange of fire, while a member of the security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.

The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and increased patrols in the affected area to track down fleeing suspects.

Residents were urged to remain calm, vigilant and continue to support security agencies with credible information as operations continue.