Tragedy struck on Wednesday in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, as three police officers and two vigilante members were killed in an attack at a security checkpoint.
The Kogi State Government has strongly condemned the killings, calling for a thorough investigation and swift justice for those responsible.
The incident is one of the deadliest security breaches in the state in recent months, amplifying concerns over the safety of security personnel operating in volatile rural communities.
In a statement on Thursday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the deaths and described the attack as a major threat to ongoing efforts to stabilize security in the state.
“The Kogi State Government has received with deep concern reports of security breaches at two flashpoints in the State today,” Fanwo said.
“This includes an attack on security personnel in Yagba West LGA, which tragically led to the loss of gallant police officers, and a kidnapping incident along the Lokoja-Obajana road.”
Despite the violent attack in Egbe, Fanwo noted a separate incident where 17 kidnapped passengers along the Lokoja–Obajana highway were rescued following joint efforts by the Nigerian Army and local hunters.
“We commend the swift response of the security forces and local hunters involved in the rescue operation. Their bravery is a testament to the resilience of our security architecture,” he said.
Fanwo extended condolences to the families of the slain officers and vigilantes, saying their “supreme sacrifice” in the line of duty would not be forgotten.
“Their courage inspires our continued commitment to fight criminality in Kogi State,” he added.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, according to the commissioner, has directed the deployment of more personnel and tactical resources to strategic locations to prevent further attacks.
He reiterated the administration’s zero-tolerance policy on insecurity and reaffirmed its support for both formal and informal security networks, including local vigilante groups.
The state government also urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security efforts by sharing timely and useful information.
“We call on the people of Kogi to stand together with our security agencies. Together, we will defeat those who seek to disrupt the peace and safety of our communities,” Fanwo concluded.
