The Kogi State Government confirmed that security operatives foiled a terrorist attack in Ikoyi, Ijumu Local Government Area, preventing a major security crisis in the state.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the incident occurred a
on Saturday when a group of Tiv residents violated the state government’s security protocol restricting public social gatherings beyond 4:00 p.m.
Fanwo said armed bandits took advantage of the gathering and launched an attack with the
intention of abducting participants and creating panic within the community.
However, a swift and coordinated response of the Kogi State’s security architecture in collaboration with sister agencies, thwarted the attack leading to a fierce gun battle that forced the criminals to abandon their plans and flee.
Fanwo said , one member of the Tiv community lost his life in the crossfire, while another sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
He also noted that intelligence reports indicate that several of the attackers sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange of fire before escaping adding that security agencies have launched a manhunt to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The Kogi State Government also urged members of the public to promptly report any individual found with suspicious gunshot wounds to the nearest police station or security formation.
The state government also commended the courage, sacrifice, and professionalism of all security personnel involved in defending the community and preventing what could have been a tragic and large-scale security breach.
