Gunmen dressed in military uniforms stormed Government Secondary School, Iluke in Kogi State Wednesday morning, killing three people including Vice Principal Gani Anifowose.
The attack hit at about 9am while students were sitting for WASSCE exams. The bandits disrupted the test and tried to force students into the bush for abduction.
Security forces responded fast. A fierce gun battle broke out and the attackers were pushed back. All students were rescued unharmed and returned to safety, according to Kogi State officials.
One bandit was killed in the shootout. Others fled with gunshot wounds. A manhunt is now underway to track them down.
Commissioner for Information Kingsley Femi Fanwo called it a “tragic act of terrorism” and thanked military personnel, local vigilantes, and hunters for preventing a mass kidnapping. He said the state will boost security around Iluke and urged residents to stay alert and share intel with authorities.
Kogi government vowed it won’t bow to terror: “Criminal elements will continue to meet a determined, coordinated and uncompromising response.”
