Two youths were reportedly shot dead on Wednesday when soldiers and policemen deployed to Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State allegedly opened fire on residents protesting rising insecurity in their community.
The incident occurred hours after bandits launched an early-morning attack on Irunda-Ile, killing two residents and heightening tension across the area.
Outraged by the repeated assaults, youths in the community organised what witnesses described as a peaceful march demanding urgent government intervention. However, the protest reportedly turned chaotic when security operatives attempted to disperse the crowd.
Eyewitnesses told Newsmen that the security personnel opened fire during the confrontation, leaving two youths dead on the spot while two others were rushed to the hospital and placed on life support.
“The youths were only protesting the killings in the community. We never expected things to turn out this way,” a resident said, describing the incident as “a heartbreaking escalation of an already traumatic day.”
Community sources alleged that the operatives deployed to Isanlu–Irunda shot at unarmed residents, worsening the unrest. “Two people have been shot now. We will seek legal redress,” one source said.
Residents expressed shock at what they described as an unprovoked attack by those meant to protect them, adding that the deaths have deepened fear in a region already grappling with persistent security threats.
They called on the Kogi State Government and relevant security agencies to launch a transparent investigation and ensure accountability, whether the culprits are bandits or erring personnel.
Community leaders have appealed for calm, urging authorities to strengthen security across rural settlements in Yagba East, which have recorded repeated attacks in recent months.
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