Emmanuel lkpeama.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has assured residents of Iluke Community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area that those responsible for the recent deadly bandit attack will be tracked down and brought to justice, declaring that there will be no hiding place for criminals operating in the state.
The Governor gave the assurance during a condolence visit to the community following the June 10 attack by armed bandits that disrupted the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and claimed three lives.
Among those killed were the Vice Principal of Government Secondary School, Iluke, Pastor Anufo Owuse, an elderly resident, and a young girl who was hit by stray bullets during the invasion.
Authorities clarified that contrary to earlier reports, no student lost his or her life during the incident.
Read Also:Iluke Attack: Kogi Government Praises Security Forces, Condoles Bereaved Families.
The attack threw the community into panic as the bandits attempted to abduct residents, including candidates sitting for their WASSCE examinations.
However, a coordinated response by military personnel, local security operatives, vigilantes and hunters foiled the operation and secured the release of those being led into the bush by the attackers.
According to security sources and community leaders, the swift intervention prevented what could have become one of the largest mass abductions in recent times, with more than 100 persons believed to have been targeted by the criminals.
Speaking during an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas, Governor Ododo expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Iluke community, assuring them that the government would strengthen security measures to prevent a recurrence.
He praised the gallantry of the military, security agencies, local vigilantes and hunters whose prompt action saved countless lives and protected students writing their examinations.
“The bravery displayed by our security personnel and community defenders is commendable. Their timely intervention prevented a major tragedy and demonstrated that criminals will continue to face stiff resistance in Kogi State,” the Governor said.
Governor Ododo reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to securing every part of the state, stressing that the safety of citizens remains a top priority.
He assured residents that security operations have been intensified across vulnerable communities, adding that government would continue to provide the necessary support to security agencies to sustain the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.
Residents and community leaders thanked the Governor for his swift visit and intervention, expressing confidence in the government’s resolve to restore lasting peace and security to the area. :::