Two lives have been lost in a shocking outbreak of violence that has unsettled Irunda-Ile, a rural settlement in Yagba East, as residents recount a frightening encounter that has intensified ongoing concerns about rising insecurity in the area.
The community is grappling with grief and anger as reports emerge suggesting that the attack may not have come solely from unidentified armed assailants.
Residents described the assault as “terrifying and unexpected”, triggering panic as people fled for safety in the early hours, leaving behind shattered homes, distraught families, and a community demanding answers.
The incident happened on Wednesday in Irunda-Ile, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, when armed men reportedly invaded the area and opened fire indiscriminately.
However, tensions escalated further when locals alleged that some of the security personnel deployed to the troubled Isanlu–Irunda axis were seen firing at unarmed civilians.
A resident, who identified himself simply as Adewole, voiced his frustration, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable.
He said, “We cannot remain silent while people are being killed. If those sent to protect us become threats, then where do we turn?”
Residents argued that the deaths were unprovoked and that those who lost their lives were ordinary people caught in the chaos of an attack they neither anticipated nor contributed to.
Community members are demanding immediate legal action and a proper inquiry to uncover how an operation meant to enhance safety allegedly resulted in more harm.
Furthermore, locals are calling on the Kogi State government and security agencies to conduct a transparent and unbiased investigation that will reveal whether the perpetrators were criminal gangs or negligent officers acting outside the scope of their duties.
A community youth leader, Musa Aro, remarked, “Justice must not only be promised; it must be seen to be done. Lives have been cut short, and the truth must come out.”
Meanwhile, traditional and community leaders are appealing for calm, urging residents not to take matters into their own hands while authorities address the growing insecurity affecting villages across Yagba East in recent months.
As of the time of publishing this report, the Kogi State Police Command has not issued an official response regarding the attack or the allegations raised by residents.
The unfolding situation reflects a broader debate over security accountability and the protection of vulnerable rural communities, a conversation that continues to gather momentum as insecurity persists across parts of Nigeria.