What could have become another heartbreaking school abduction in Nigeria was stopped at the last moment after Nigerian Army troops foiled an attempted attack on pupils in Kogi State.
The intervention came after terrorists allegedly disguised themselves in military uniforms and moved into a community with plans to abduct schoolchildren.
The development has once again highlighted the growing importance of community vigilance in preventing security threats.
The Kidnap Attempt occurred in Iluke Community, located in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to military authorities, troops of the 12 Brigade, operating under the 2 Division Nigerian Army, acted on credible intelligence provided by residents.
The information reportedly alerted soldiers on patrol to suspicious activities within the area. Therefore, troops quickly mobilised and moved toward the community.
Security sources said the rapid deployment proved crucial.
Upon arriving at the location, troops reportedly discovered that the attackers had already gathered pupils of Iluke Primary School.
The terrorists were said to be preparing to move the children away from the area when military personnel arrived.
According to the Army, the criminals had disguised themselves as soldiers in an apparent attempt to avoid suspicion and gain access to the community.
However, their plan was disrupted before it could be carried out.
The military stated: “Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army under 2 Division Nigerian Army have foiled an attempted abduction of pupils at Iluke Community in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, thwarting the plans of terrorists who disguised themselves in military uniforms to carry out the attack.”
The statement further explained that the operation was launched after information was received from vigilant residents.
It added: “The successful operation was conducted on 10 June 2026 following credible information provided by vigilant members of the community who alerted troops on patrol to the activities of the terrorists within the area.”
Meanwhile, troops immediately engaged the attackers upon arrival.
During the encounter, one suspect was neutralised. Furthermore, several others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.
The military noted: “Without delay, the troops engaged the terrorists, compelling them to abandon their mission and flee the area.”
The successful operation has been widely viewed as a major breakthrough against criminal groups targeting schools.
In recent years, school abductions have remained a serious security concern across several parts of Nigeria.
Moreover, the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence sharing between communities and security agencies.
Meanwhile, security forces are expected to continue efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.
Residents have also been encouraged to remain alert and report suspicious activities promptly.
