Suspected bandits have killed at least 20 people in a deadly assault on a community in Kebbi State, deepening concerns over the persistent security threats facing rural settlements across the region.
The attack, which claimed numerous lives and left residents in mourning, has triggered fresh calls for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable communities from recurring violence.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Kebbi State Government expressed grief over the loss of lives and pledged immediate action to improve security in the affected area.
State officials described the killings as a painful setback and assured residents that efforts were underway to prevent a recurrence.
During a visit to sympathise with the victims’ families, Deputy Governor Umar Tafida said the administration remained determined to confront criminal activities threatening peace in the state.
“Our hearts are with the families that have lost loved ones. Government will continue to strengthen security operations and ensure communities receive the protection they deserve,” he said.
Tafida further disclosed that additional security personnel and logistical support would be deployed to bolster ongoing operations and enhance surveillance in vulnerable locations.
According to local authorities, the attack occurred earlier in the week and resulted in significant casualties.
Community leaders urged security agencies to intensify efforts against armed groups operating in the area.
Chairman of Arewa Local Government Area, Sani Tela, and the lawmaker representing the constituency in the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Nuradeen Kangiwa, commended the state government’s response and expressed hope that the renewed security measures would help restore confidence among residents.
Traditional rulers who received the government delegation also acknowledged the administration’s intervention while highlighting longstanding infrastructure challenges affecting the community.
They specifically appealed for the construction of a road linking the affected settlement to the major highway network, arguing that better road access would improve emergency response, support economic activities and enable security operatives to respond more rapidly during emergencies.
One of the traditional leaders said improved infrastructure was critical to the safety and development of the area.
“Accessible roads can make a major difference in security response times and help communities recover economically from repeated attacks,” the monarch said.
The latest incident underscores the continuing challenge of banditry in parts of northwestern Nigeria, where several rural communities remain exposed to attacks despite ongoing security operations by government forces.