December 14, 2025 — Dalena Reporters
Armed terrorist have attacked Okunran community in Kogi State, abducting a man during a late‑night raid, in the latest incident underscoring the worsening insecurity confronting several communities across the state.
According to residents and local sources cited by DalenaReporters, the assailants stormed the community in the early hours of Sunday, firing sporadically to instil fear before forcefully taking away their victim. The identity of the abducted man was withheld for security reasons, while details surrounding a possible ransom demand remain unclear as of the time of reporting.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived in significant numbers, overwhelming the community, which reportedly lacks adequate security presence. Residents described scenes of panic as families fled their homes for safety while the bandits operated unhindered for several minutes before retreating into nearby bushes.
The abduction in Okunran adds to a growing list of kidnappings, armed attacks and criminal incursions reported across Kogi communities in recent months. Locals have repeatedly raised alarm over what they describe as the increasing boldness of criminal gangs, exploiting forested areas and porous inter‑community routes to carry out attacks.
Community leaders lamented the continued vulnerability of rural settlements, accusing authorities of failing to deploy sufficient security personnel to deter criminal activities. “We live in fear every night. These people come and go freely because there is no security,” a resident said.
Despite repeated calls for intervention, residents say response from security agencies is often delayed, allowing attackers to escape before reinforcements arrive. Some communities have resorted to self‑help measures, including night patrols and local vigilante arrangements, though these efforts are limited by lack of equipment and training.
Kogi State has in recent years experienced a surge in insecurity linked to banditry, kidnapping for ransom and armed robbery, particularly in rural and border communities connecting neighbouring states. Analysts warn that without coordinated security operations and improved intelligence gathering, the situation could further deteriorate.
As of press time, the Kogi State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the Okunran attack. Residents are calling on the state and federal governments to urgently reinforce security in affected areas to prevent further abductions and restore confidence among communities already traumatised by persistent violence.