At least two protesters were killed and two others critically injured on Wednesday in Irunda-Ile, Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, after security operatives opened fire during a demonstration over rising insecurity in the area.
Eyewitnesses said the youths were protesting a violent bandit raid on the community earlier in the day when the confrontation occurred. The protesters accused police officers deployed to the area of delaying action against the attackers.
The Bobagunwa of Irunda-Isanlu, Chief David Oni Sunday, confirmed that bandits had attacked the community at dawn, killing two local vigilantes in a shootout.
He explained that tensions escalated when youths confronted security personnel, leading to the fatal shooting of two protesters. Two others were hospitalised following excessive exposure to tear gas fired by the police.
“In total, four people lost their lives today. Two were killed by bandits, and two were accidentally shot during the clash with security forces,” Chief Oni said.
The Kogi State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), confirmed the incident, urging residents to cooperate with security personnel instead of confronting them.
He noted that the bandits had been neutralised in recent operations, including aerial surveillance, and reassured the public that the state government is committed to maintaining law and order.
Efforts to reach the Kogi State Police Command for comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
The latest incident underscores the growing tension between communities and security forces in areas plagued by banditry, raising concerns over the safety of residents and the effectiveness of law enforcement in the state.
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