Unknown bandits have attacked a rural community, Idofin in Kogi State, on Saturday evening, January 3, 2026. The attack led to the death of one man and wounded another.
The assault, which occurred between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., left residents shaken and forced many to flee their homes as gunshots echoed through the normally quiet town.
It was gathered that the deceased, identified as a Tiv man, was killed during the raid, while another victim, an indigene of the community was seriously injured and later transported by military personnel to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.
Local sources indicated that the attackers struck swiftly, catching many unaware and prompting urgent pleas from residents for enhanced protection from state authorities and security agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kogi State Government nor the Nigerian Police Force had issued an official statement on the incident, leaving a vacuum of authoritative information about the raid and potential suspects.
The absence of an official response has intensified anxiety among villagers, many of whom described feeling abandoned in the face of recurring attacks by armed groups that have terrorised communities across the region.
Residents have continued to express deep concern over the persistent security challenges affecting Yagba East and neighbouring local government areas, urging the Kogi State Government and federal security authorities to boost their presence and operations to prevent further bloodshed.
“This community cannot continue to watch innocent lives being taken while we wait for help,” one resident commented, speaking on condition of anonymity due to fear of reprisal. His sentiments reflect growing frustration among locals who say they have repeatedly appealed for more robust military and police patrols.
In response to the latest attack, local spokesperson David Ampitan, representing community voices, accused state officials of sidelining citizens’ safety concerns and alleged that authorities have sometimes clamped down on peaceful demonstrations rather than addressing the root causes of insecurity.
According to the community statement, “instead of taking decisive steps to protect lives, rescue abducted victims, or pursue the perpetrators, authorities allegedly turned against the people.” This claim has not been independently verified by official sources but reflects the depth of mistrust held by residents.
As of now, community leaders continue to appeal for an urgent and sustained security response to restore confidence among residents and safeguard lives and livelihoods in this beleaguered part of Kogi State.
