At least 20 people have been killed in a series of attacks by gunmen in Niger State, while dozens more reportedly died in Kebbi State, authorities and residents said.
The attack in Niger State occurred in Shiroro Local Government Area, where residents reported that attackers operated for several hours, destroying homes and overwhelming local security forces.
Many villagers fled to nearby towns, including Gwada, Zumba, and Galadima Kogo, seeking safety.
Wasiu Abiodun, public relations officer for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed that gunmen stormed Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday.
He said, “Two community guards and a driver were killed, while several others sustained injuries.”
Similar attacks were reported in Kebbi State, where suspected bandits killed dozens and set homes ablaze.
Bashir Usman, Kebbi State Police spokesperson, confirmed the attacks but said the exact casualty figures are still unclear.
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“At about 2230hrs, suspected Mamudawa terrorist elements attacked the villages, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property,” he stated, as reported by TheCable.
He added that police tactical teams from the Illo Division responded swiftly, neutralizing two attackers and recovering a Niger Republic Army uniform along with Immigration uniforms.
“While reports are still being verified, the command cannot at this time confirm the casualty figures being circulated.
However, we deeply sympathise with the affected communities,” Usman said.
Usman confirmed additional security personnel have been deployed to prevent further attacks.
“Security personnel have been reinforced and are actively on ground to forestall further attacks,” he added, urging residents to remain calm and promising further updates as more information becomes available.