Panic in Kogi as fresh attack leaves 7 feared dead

Unidentified gunmen have allegedly killed at least seven people in the attack on Okele-Ejule village in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Saturday.

According to reports, the gunmen dressed in military camouflage were said to have attacked the community at about 5 p.m., shooting at everyone on sight, killing several persons and forcing others to flee for safety.

The number of fatalities is believed to be higher, as one more victim was discovered from the nearby bush the next day.

However, the reason behind the attack is unknown, as residents give different explanations to it.

While one group of sources claim that the victims were criminals themselves, the other suspects political reasons behind the attacks.

Also, some residents believe it is yet another instance of unidentified gunmen attack.

A source revealed that some of the deceased were wanted by the Department of State Services (DSS) for their roles in kidnapping and related crimes in Ejule and surrounding areas.

“Those killed were alleged to be either kidnappers or informants”, a source in the community said.

The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying its operatives recovered three male corpses from a bush along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road in Ofu Local Government Area.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said, “On Saturday, 4th July 2026, at about 4:35 p.m., there was a report of three male corpses discovered in a bush along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road in Ofu Local Government Area.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives, led by the DPO of Ofu Division, promptly mobilised to the scene, where the bodies, which bore suspected gunshot injuries, were recovered.

“The corpses were evacuated to the Grimard Hospital Mortuary, Anyigba, for preservation and autopsy. Coroner’s procedures have also been initiated.

“The deceased have been identified as: Ibrahim Lawal (30 years), Ayuba Salisu (28 years) and Mudi Magi (42 years), all of Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area.”

According to the statement, preliminary investigation indicated that “the victims were attacked in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area, before their bodies were discovered along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road.”

“A comprehensive investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and apprehend those responsible.”