A tragic incident unfolded in Agojeju Odo community, situated in the Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, as unidentified gunmen unleashed violence, resulting in the loss of nineteen lives and widespread destruction of property.
Confirming the harrowing attack, the Police Public Relations Officer in Kogi State, William Aya, disclosed that the assailants, whose identities remain unknown, descended on the community on Thursday, wreaking havoc and instilling fear among residents.
According to Aya, the Divisional Police Office in the local government reported the grim toll of 19 fatalities and several injuries inflicted during the assault.
The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Bethrand Onuoha, has swiftly responded by deploying additional police personnel to the affected communities, vowing to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous act.
Eyewitnesses recounted the terrifying ordeal as the gunmen ravaged Agojeju Odo, leaving neighboring communities such as Ajokpachi Odo and Bagaji deserted in fear of further attacks.
The traumatized residents, now grappling with the aftermath of the violence, have issued a fervent plea to Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, and security agencies for urgent intervention.
Expressing concern over the escalating insecurity, the affected communities implored authorities to bolster security measures and deploy more personnel to safeguard the area. They lamented the overwhelmed and overpowered state of the local police force, emphasizing the urgent need for reinforcement to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations into the attack unfold and efforts to restore calm continue, residents remain on edge, grappling with the profound loss of lives and the enduring trauma inflicted by the ruthless assailants.
The tragic events in Agojeju Odo serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for concerted action to stem the tide of violence and ensure the safety and security of all citizens in Kogi State.