Vigilante Thwarts Bandit Attack on Kogi School, Two Killed

By Henry Umoru, Omeiza Ajayi, Boluwaji Obahopo & Luminous Jannamike

A vigilante group in Aiyetoro Kiri, Kabba Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, successfully prevented a bandit attack on Kiri High School yesterday, ensuring that students were not abducted.

The incident follows recent abductions of 25 schoolgirls from Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State—who have since been released—and over 300 students from St Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State. Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. John Hayab, revealed that the father of three abducted pupils in Niger died from a heart attack due to the trauma. Consequently, the national Christian Association of Nigeria called on the federal government to act decisively to protect citizens amid the rising wave of attacks.

Vigilante Response

Members of the Kiri Vigilante Group reportedly acted swiftly to confront the attackers, rescuing all students from potential abduction. Community sources confirmed that no student remained in captivity following the coordinated response. However, the operation resulted in the deaths of one vigilante and one local Hausa resident.

Zaccheus Dare Michael, Chairman of Kabba Bunu LGA, confirmed the attack, stating that bandits were resisted and repelled by security teams. In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Omofa John, Michael emphasized that operations by joint security forces and local vigilantes are ongoing to maintain safety and restore confidence in the area.

Impact on Families

Rev. Hayab highlighted the severe emotional toll on families affected by abductions in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger. He described the death of Mr. Anthony, whose three children were kidnapped in Niger, as a tragic consequence of the trauma families endure. Hayab stressed that families demand immediate action from security agencies to prevent further harm.

Calls for Government Action

Northern CAN urged the federal government to implement urgent, decisive measures to safeguard citizens nationwide. Archbishop Daniel Okoh, addressing the 32nd Triennial General Assembly of the Christian Council of Nigeria in Abuja, emphasized that the protection of lives and property is a constitutional and moral obligation that requires swift and uncompromising action.

FCT School Closure Controversy

Separately, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike condemned officials responsible for an unauthorised circular ordering school closures in Abuja, describing the action as irresponsible and capable of spreading panic. Wike affirmed that no threat justified shutting schools and announced disciplinary measures against those involved. Security agencies remain fully deployed to ensure the safety of students.

Senate and House React

In the Senate, lawmakers engaged in heated debates over the deteriorating security situation, warning that public confidence in government was at risk. Senator Asiru Yisa (Kwara South) proposed creating a Joint Task Force along the Kwara–Kogi corridor, a known escape route for bandits. Other senators called for immediate reforms and sought international collaboration to address the crisis.

The House of Representatives condemned government negotiations with kidnappers, warning that such actions would encourage further violence. Representatives from all six geopolitical zones described engagement with criminal networks as a betrayal of national security and called for firm, decisive protection measures.

Atiku Abubakar’s Statement

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the federal government’s approach to recent abductions, describing the release of kidnapped victims as a reminder that bandits now operate with impunity. He called on authorities to act decisively against criminals rather than relying on negotiations, warning that the current strategy undermines public trust and national security.