LOKOJA, Kogi State — In a major boost to security operations in Nigeria’s North-Central region, troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with police, local hunters, vigilantes, and other hybrid forces, have killed notorious bandit leader Kachalla Ibrahim Aliyu, popularly known as Battijo (also referred to as Baccujo or Ibrahim Dange Battijo), along with his second-in-command, Dabbaba.
The operation occurred on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, when Battijo and his gang attempted to abduct students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE/WAEC) at Government Secondary School (or UBE Secondary/Primary School) in Iluke Bunu community, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Background of Battijo’s Reign of Terror
Battijo had long terrorized communities across Zamfara State in the Northwest before relocating his operational base to the Gugu area in Kwara State. From there, he controlled vast forest areas extending into parts of Kogi and other neighboring states, engaging in kidnappings, armed robbery, cattle rustling, and coordinated banditry.
When his group first moved operations into Kogi State, they passed through Isanlu. Local hunters laid an ambush but were overpowered; two hunters were reportedly gunned down. This incident prompted Irunda youths in Isanlu to stage public demonstrations against the rising insecurity and destruction linked to his activities.
Further setbacks for the gang included:
· The arrest of Battijo’s son in Isanlu around September 2025.
· The arrest of his wife and another son near the Jamata Bridge axis in December 2025.
Battijo later established a base in the Tunga Forest area around Lokoja, from where he continued orchestrating criminal operations across the region.
The Iluke Operation and Neutralization
Intelligence reports alerted security forces to Battijo’s planned attack on the school. As the bandits invaded on motorcycles, attempting to abduct students and residents, a fierce gun battle erupted with combined security operatives.
The operation successfully foiled the mass abduction. Battijo and Dabbaba were killed during the encounter, along with several other gang members (reports vary from a few to over 15 accomplices neutralized). The body of Battijo was later recovered for confirmation.
Tragically, the attack claimed the lives of three civilians before it was repelled: Vice Principal Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose (or Gani Anifowose) of the school, a 70-year-old man (Jacob Alhassan), and a 6-year-old boy (Sunday Ayele). Some security personnel also sustained injuries.
Reactions and Commendations
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo described the elimination as a significant achievement in the fight against insecurity. He visited the affected Iluke community, briefed National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu on the operation, and commended the collaborative efforts of federal and state security agencies.
The Kogi State Government and residents have expressed relief and gratitude. Special appreciation has been extended to gallant personnel of the military, police, air force, local hunters, and vigilante groups. Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd.), Kogi State Security Adviser, has been highlighted for his role in coordinating security strategies.
This development is seen as a major blow to banditry networks operating across Zamfara, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and surrounding states. Governor Ododo and security chiefs have warned remaining criminal elements that no part of Kogi State will be conceded to bandits or kidnappers.
Broader Implications
The neutralization of Battijo underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration under the current administration. Communities in the affected areas are celebrating the news, viewing it as justice for years of terror and a step toward lasting peace.
Security operations continue in the forests and surrounding areas to mop up remnants of the gang and prevent reprisals. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, as security remains a collective responsibility.
This is a developing story with ongoing investigations and potential updates on further arrests or recoveries.
