Unidentified gunmen have reportedly killed at least seven persons during an attack on Okele-Ejule in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Saturday.

The attackers, said to be dressed in military camouflage, reportedly stormed the community at about 5 p.m. and opened fire indiscriminately, leaving several people dead and others fleeing for safety.

Residents said the death toll could be higher, as another body was reportedly recovered from a nearby bush on Sunday morning.

The motive for the attack remains unclear, with residents giving conflicting accounts of what may have led to the killings.

While some community sources claimed that some of the victims had criminal records, others suspected a political motive behind the attack.

Some residents also described it as another incident involving unidentified gunmen.

A source alleged that some of those killed had been on the radar of the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged involvement in kidnapping and other related crimes in Ejule and neighbouring communities.

“Those killed were alleged to be either kidnappers or informants”, a source in the community said.

The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying its operatives recovered three male corpses from a bush along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road in Ofu Local Government Area.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said, “On Saturday, 4th July 2026, at about 4:35 p.m., there was a report of three male corpses discovered in a bush along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road in Ofu Local Government Area.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives, led by the DPO of Ofu Division, promptly mobilised to the scene, where the bodies, which bore suspected gunshot injuries, were recovered.

“The corpses were evacuated to the Grimard Hospital Mortuary, Anyigba, for preservation and autopsy. Coroner’s procedures have also been initiated.

“The deceased have been identified as: Ibrahim Lawal (30 years), Ayuba Salisu (28 years) and Mudi Magi (42 years), all of Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area.”

According to the statement, preliminary investigation indicated that “the victims were attacked in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area, before their bodies were discovered along the Ochadamu–Umomi Road.”

“A comprehensive investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and apprehend those responsible.” (Daily Trust)

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