Military operation disrupts suspected terrorist plot targeting examination candidates as Nigerian security forces neutralise notorious kingpin and several associates.
Nigerian troops have successfully foiled a planned mass abduction of students participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Kogi State, killing a wanted terror kingpin identified as Ibrahim Battijo and 15 other suspected terrorists.
According to security reports, the operation was carried out following credible intelligence indicating that armed terrorists were preparing to launch coordinated attacks on schools and abduct students during the examination period.
Troops swiftly mobilised and engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the elimination of Battijo and several members of his network. The operation also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other items believed to have been used by the criminal group.
Nigerian Security sources described Battijo as a high-value target linked to multiple terror-related activities and violent attacks in parts of the country. His death is expected to significantly weaken the operational capacity of the group.
The operation reportedly prevented what could have been a large-scale kidnapping involving students and school personnel. Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the development amid growing concerns over attacks on educational institutions in parts of Nigeria.
Military authorities have confirmed that clearance operations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the group, while security presence around schools and examination centres has been reinforced.
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