By Abdulraheem Kawthar Adenike | Fact Frontier.
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On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, a group of armed bandits attacked Government Secondary School in Iluke Bunu, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The attack occurred around 10:00 a.m. while students were taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Casualties
Three persons lost their lives in the attack. The Kogi State Police Command identified them as:
• Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose – Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke.
• Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan – a 70‑year‑old resident.
• Sunday Ayele – a six‑year‑old child.
Response by Security Forces
According to the Police Command spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, the attackers arrived on about 40 motorcycles and wore military uniforms to deceive residents. A distress call was received at 10:00 a.m. The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division then mobilised a joint security team comprising the Police Mobile Force, military personnel, tactical units, and local vigilantes.
The joint team engaged the bandits in a gun battle, forcing them to flee into nearby bushland.
No Mass Abduction Confirmed
The Police Command stated that preliminary investigations have found no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or other residents. However, investigations are ongoing.
Government Statement
The Kogi State Government, through the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, confirmed that the attackers had begun marching students into the bush before security forces intervened. All students were successfully rescued and returned unharmed.
The government also reported that one bandit was neutralised during the exchange of fire, and several others escaped with gunshot wounds. One member of the security team sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
Official Condolences and Next Steps
The Kogi State Government extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Iluke community. The Commissioner of Police has ordered continued bush‑combing operations and patrols in the area to apprehend fleeing suspects.
Members of the public are advised to remain calm and vigilant, and to provide any useful information to security agencies. Further updates will be issued as the investigation proceeds.
