Gunmen stormed Government Secondary School in Iluke Bunu, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday morning, leaving three people dead. The attack happened at about 10:00 a.m. on June 10, 2026, throwing the community into grief and raising fresh fears over security in the area.
The assailants targeted the school with what police believe was an intention to abduct students and residents. Instead, the invasion ended in bloodshed. Among those killed was Mr Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke. Also shot dead were 70-year-old Mr Sunday Jacob Alhassan and 6-year-old Sunday Ayele.
ASP Saliu, spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, confirmed the incident in an official statement. He said the bandits invaded the premises and opened fire, killing the three victims before security operatives could respond.
The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Kabba ‘A’ Division moved quickly after distress calls came in. He mobilized a joint security response that included officers from the division, the Police Mobile Force, and tactical units. Military personnel and local vigilante groups already stationed nearby also joined the operation.
The combined security team met the attackers with heavy gunfire. A fierce exchange forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding forest. During the gun duel, one of the bandits was neutralized by security forces. A member of the joint team sustained bullet wounds and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Preliminary findings from the police show no concrete evidence that the attackers succeeded in carrying out a mass abduction of students or other residents. However, ASP Saliu said investigations and ongoing assessments are still continuing to determine the full details surrounding the incident.
The command confirmed that three persons lost their lives in the attack. The victims were identified as the school’s Vice Principal, the elderly man, and the 6-year-old child. Police described the incident as a tragic assault on the school community.
The Commissioner of Police has directed sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols in the affected area. Joint security operatives remain on ground conducting intensive operations to track down the fleeing suspects and stop further attacks.
ASP Saliu urged residents to stay calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information. He assured the public that updates will be shared as investigations and operations continue.
The attack has left Iluke Bunu community mourning, with calls for stronger protection of schools and rural settlements across Kogi State.
