Five killed in reprisal attack on three communities in Kogi

At least five people have been confirmed dead following a reprisal attack on three communities in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, authorities have confirmed.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of the day, is believed to have been a retaliatory assault linked to an earlier communal dispute in the area. Gunmen reportedly stormed the affected farming communities, killing residents, injuring several others and setting houses ablaze before fleeing the scene.

The incident forced many residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in nearby communities and surrounding bushes, while properties, including residential buildings and farm produce, were destroyed during the violence.

Local sources said the attackers targeted the communities in what appeared to be a coordinated operation, raising fears of renewed communal unrest in the area.

Reacting to the attack, the Kogi State Government condemned the killings, describing the violence as unacceptable and assuring residents that those responsible would be brought to justice.

The government said security agencies had been directed to launch an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators, with joint security teams deployed to the affected communities to restore calm and prevent further reprisals.

Authorities also disclosed that additional security personnel had been stationed in vulnerable parts of Lokoja Local Government Area, while traditional rulers and community leaders were being engaged to promote dialogue and prevent the crisis from escalating.

The Kogi State Police Command, supported by other security agencies and local vigilante groups, has intensified patrols across the affected communities as investigations into the attack continue.

Residents have been urged to remain calm, cooperate with security operatives and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.

The latest violence underscores the persistent challenge of communal clashes in parts of Kogi State, where disputes over land, resources and local grievances have periodically erupted into deadly confrontations. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy and ensure those responsible for the attack face prosecution.