Gladness Gideon
At least 20 people have been confirmed dead following a terrorist attack on Kwalajiya Village in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The deadly assault, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, has left the rural community devastated and residents fearing for their lives.
Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the violence. Armed men reportedly descended on the village under the cover of darkness, opening fire indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze. Women and children were among the victims, while several villagers remain missing.
A local resident, who requested anonymity, described the attack as “utterly harrowing.” “They came heavily armed, shooting at everyone and torching homes. It was a nightmare,” the source said.
The village head is said to have narrowly escaped the onslaught and has since taken refuge in Sokoto city at a relative’s residence. His condition is currently unknown, but sources say he fled in fear for his life.
Spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufae, confirmed the attack but refrained from offering detailed comments. “Yes, the incident occurred. We are still investigating and will provide further information in due course,” Rufae stated.
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While the motive behind the massacre remains officially unconfirmed, some local sources suggest it may be linked to tensions involving the Lakurawa terrorist group. Allegedly, the village head had refused to permit intermarriage between his people and suspected affiliates of the group. However, these claims are yet to be independently verified.
The attack has reignited public concern over the growing insecurity in Sokoto State and the unchecked spread of violent armed groups across rural communities.
Human rights advocates and residents have urged both state and federal authorities to take immediate action to protect vulnerable areas and apprehend those responsible for the bloodshed.
As search and recovery efforts continue, the people of Kwalajiya remain in mourning, their lives shattered by an act of senseless brutality.