Amnesty International has condemned the killing of at least 17 people, including visitors who travelled home for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, following a bandit attack on Dangulbi community in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State on 1 June 2026.
The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to urgently investigate the attack, bring those responsible to justice, and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities, stressing that the incident reflects a continuing pattern of insecurity in the region.
According to a statement by the Amnesty International on Tuesday, authorities must provide effective support and assistance to survivors, displaced persons and families affected by the attack.
“The Nigerian authorities must urgently investigate this attack, ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice in fair proceedings, and take immediate steps to protect communities that remain at risk.”
It was previously reported that residents said the attackers, numbering in the hundreds and riding on motorcycles, invaded the community in the morning hours, opening fire on villagers, looting shops and forcing residents to flee into nearby forests.
Local sources disclosed that the gunmen reportedly entered Dangulbi between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., after allegedly moving through villages in Zamfara State before spending the night in a neighbouring community ahead of the assault.
The victims included community members and visitors who had returned home for the Sallah celebrations, with at least seven of those killed reportedly travelling in from other areas for Eid-el-Kabir.
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Among the deceased were identified residents including Munde, Nagoma, Abdullahi, Danbala, Munden Chana, Muhammadu Dan Amo, Hassan, Abubakar Danbaba and Yidi Bafillace.
Local sources also said five of the victims were visitors from Adarawa in Gummi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, while two others had travelled from Gidan Gambo in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State for the festivities.
Amnesty International said the killing and destruction of property highlight what it described as the “continuing failure” of authorities to protect rural communities from armed attacks, noting that repeated incidents have left residents in constant fear and disrupted livelihoods, farming activities and access to essential services.
The organisation added that the fact that some victims had travelled home to celebrate Eid made the attack particularly tragic, stressing that communities should be able to gather and celebrate without fear of violence.
It further stated that the recurring violence across eastern Sokoto and neighbouring areas reflects a broader insecurity crisis marked by killings, abductions and displacement, which continues to undermine daily life in affected communities.
Amnesty International reiterated that protecting the right to life remains a core responsibility of government, urging both federal and state authorities to adopt urgent, coordinated and sustained measures to prevent further attacks, ensure accountability and support recovery for affected populations.