In a shocking turn of events, the peaceful town of Kogi was struck by a devastating attack today. Unknown Gunmen unleashed violence, causing chaos and destruction in the Agojeju Odo community in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing nineteen (19) people and leaving the community in mourning.
This incident was confirmed today, Friday 5th April 2024 by the Police Public relations officer in Kogi State, William Aya, who said “The yet-to-be-identified gunmen attacked the community on Thursday”.
William Aya further said that “the Divisional Police Office of the local government informed him that 19 people were killed while some sustained injuries in the attack”.
He stated that the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Bethrand Onuoha, has deployed more policemen to the communities, assuring that the perpetrators of the heinous act will be apprehended.
Other sources stated that the attack took place on Thursday night, while the entire community was asleep. The community appealed to the Kogi State governor, Usman Ododo, and security agencies to aid by deploying more security personnel to the area.
In an interview with a community leader who escaped and begged for his name to be kept off the record, he stated that they were caught unawares. He said there had been rumors in the past few weeks of the possible invasion which they brought to the attention of the recently appointed Local Government Council Caretaker Chairman, Mark Edibo. Still, they were assured of safety and protection.
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants targeted specific areas, setting houses ablaze and instilling fear among the residents. The sound of gunfire echoed through the streets as panic gripped the town. The community is left reeling from the aftermath, grappling with the loss of loved ones and the destruction of their homes.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims. May they find strength and solace amid this tragedy.