One dead, other injured in fresh gunmen attack on Kogi Community

Suspected gunmen have struck Idofin community in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing one resident and critically injuring another in a fresh security breach.

The attack reportedly took place on Saturday, January 3, 2026, between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., plunging the community into fear and uncertainty. Sources confirmed that the victim who lost his life was of Tiv extraction, while another local resident sustained severe injuries during the assault.

Information from a community-based platform, Egbe Mekun, indicated that the injured victim was later evacuated by military personnel and rushed to an undisclosed medical facility for urgent treatment.

As of the time of this report, neither the Kogi State Government nor the Nigeria Police had issued an official statement on the incident. Meanwhile, residents have continued to express anxiety over the repeated security threats in the area, urging the state government and security agencies to strengthen protection across Yagba East and neighbouring communities to forestall further attacks.

The latest incident comes amid broader security concerns in the state. Recently, Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area was thrown into mourning after three abducted residents were confirmed dead, despite the payment of a ransom raised through collective community efforts.

Although seven of the kidnapped residents were eventually released, three were reportedly already dead upon their return, while four others were taken to hospital and are currently receiving medical care. In addition, about 30 residents of the community are still believed to be in captivity, with their condition and whereabouts unknown.

In a statement signed by the community’s spokesperson, David Ampitan, the residents expressed deep frustration, alleging that authorities failed to take decisive action to secure lives, rescue abducted victims, or track down those responsible for the attacks. The statement further claimed that instead of addressing their demands, the Kogi State Government, through the Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, allegedly ordered the dispersal and arrest of peaceful protesters who had gathered to demand improved security, justice, and the release of their kidnapped relatives.