At least 42 people, including children, were killed in terrorist attacks in Agwara and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State over the weekend, with scores more reportedly abducted.
The attacks, which occurred in communities that have recently suffered similar assaults, involved bandits who also set fire to markets and looted shops. A reliable source said 37 people were killed in Kasuwa Daji near Papiri, while five others were gunned down in Kaima village. Many victims, including children, were abducted, some of whom had been previously kidnapped and recently released from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri.
Rev. Father Stephen Kabirat, Director of Communications for the Catholic Church of Kontagora Diocese, confirmed that no fewer than 40 people were killed. He said the parish priest narrowly escaped abduction, although some villagers were taken and church property destroyed.
The Niger State Police Command, through Spokesman Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that about 30 people were killed and an unspecified number abducted. He said a joint security team had visited the scene and efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the DSS Director-General to track down and apprehend the perpetrators. Tinubu condemned the attacks and assured that security agencies have been ordered to intensify operations in vulnerable areas, especially communities near forests often used as bandit hideouts.
Governor Mohammed Bago described the attacks as cruel and nefarious, extending condolences to victims and families while assuring that his administration is working with federal authorities to strengthen security.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the attacks, describing them as a failure of the state to protect citizens, and urged swift action to ensure the safe release of abducted residents, including children.
The Northern States Governors Forum also condemned the attacks, emphasizing the threat to peace, economic activities, and communal harmony. Similarly, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, described the killings as a crime against humanity, calling for decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Security agencies continue efforts to track the terrorists and rescue the abducted victims. President Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to remain united and resilient in confronting the ongoing security challenges.
The attacks come less than a month after over 300 pupils, students, and staff were abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, highlighting the persistent insecurity in the region.
