Emmanuel lkpeama.
Kogi–The Kogi State Government has confirmed that a joint security operation involving the Nigerian Military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Kogi State Vigilante Service, and local hunters successfully repelled a bandit invasion in Ikoyi, Ijumu Local Government Area, preventing what authorities described as a potential security crisis.
The attack occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, when armed bandits reportedly stormed a gathering in the community with the intention of abducting residents and causing widespread panic.
According to the State Government, security operatives responded swiftly to distress calls, arriving within five minutes and engaging the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
The prompt intervention disrupted the criminals’ operation and forced them to retreat into nearby forests.
In a statement issued on Sunday 7,May 2026, the Commissioner for Information and Communications,Hon Kingsley Femi Fanwo, commended the bravery, professionalism, and coordination displayed by the security agencies and local security partners involved in the operation.
He noted that the combined efforts of the military, police, vigilante operatives, and local hunters ensured the successful repulsion of the attack and averted what could have been a major security disaster.
Fanwo disclosed that intelligence reports indicate several of the attackers sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange of fire before fleeing the area. He added that security agencies have commenced a manhunt to track down and apprehend the suspects.
While confirming the success of the operation, the Commissioner disclosed that one member of the Tiv community lost his life during the crossfire, while another sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The Government has urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by reporting anyone found with suspicious gunshot wounds or seeking treatment for firearm-related injuries.
Fanwo said the incident further demonstrates the effectiveness of Kogi State’s community-based security architecture, stressing that the strong collaboration between conventional security agencies, local vigilantes, and hunters remains vital in combating criminal activities.
He also highlighted the growing impact of the Kogi State Vigilante Service since its integration into the mainstream civil service by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, noting that the reform has strengthened intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities across the state.
The Commissioner praised the courage and sacrifice of all security personnel involved in the operation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in maintaining peace and security throughout Kogi State.
He further called on citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and comply with security directives, particularly those relating to unauthorized gatherings and activities in vulnerable locations and during high-risk periods.
The State Government assured residents that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration remains resolute in its determination to protect lives and property and will continue to deploy every available resource to ensure that criminal elements find no safe haven in Kogi State.