Panic swept through Ayegunle Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State in the early hours of Monday after suspected terrorists attacked the area, killing one person and abducting more than 30 others.
The attack, which reportedly occurred around 2:25 a.m., has heightened concerns over the growing wave of insecurity affecting rural communities and major transport corridors across the state.
Community Awakened By Gunfire
Residents said the attackers stormed the community under the cover of darkness, firing sporadically and causing panic among villagers.
Preliminary reports indicated that one person was killed during the attack, while another resident sustained injuries and was rushed to a medical facility for treatment.
The incident forced many residents to flee their homes in search of safety as the gunmen operated for several minutes before retreating.
Residents, Travellers Among Victims
Sources within the community disclosed that among those abducted were two residents of Ayegunle Bunu, comprising a man and a woman.
The majority of the victims, however, were said to be passengers travelling in a commercial bus intercepted by the attackers while passing through the area.
Witnesses said the gunmen stopped the vehicle and forcefully marched the passengers into a nearby forest before fleeing.
Authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of abductees as security agencies continue efforts to determine the full scale of the attack.
Fear Grips Community
The latest attack has left residents living in fear, with many expressing concerns over recurring attacks on rural communities and travellers in parts of Kogi State.
Community members called for increased security presence in the area, particularly along major roads connecting Kabba-Bunu and neighbouring local government areas.
Some residents lamented that repeated attacks by criminal elements have disrupted economic activities and exposed rural dwellers to constant threats.
Security Agencies Yet To Issue Official Statement
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not released an official statement regarding the incident.
Local sources indicated that security personnel had been deployed to the area, while efforts were ongoing to verify the exact number of victims and launch rescue operations.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack are also ongoing.
Rising Concerns Over Rural Insecurity
The incident adds to the growing list of kidnapping and banditry attacks recorded across parts of North Central Nigeria in recent months.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that attacks targeting rural communities and travellers continue to pose serious challenges despite ongoing security operations.
The attack on Ayegunle Bunu once again underscores the vulnerability of communities located along major transport routes, where armed groups often target both residents and commuters.
Residents have urged federal and state authorities to intensify security operations in the area and ensure the safe return of those abducted during the attack.
