Manny Ita –
Dozens of people are feared dead following a deadly bandit assault on fasting Muslim worshippers in parts of Kebbi State, as security forces launched operations to repel further incursions along the state’s volatile border corridors.
Local sources said the attackers struck at dawn while residents were observing Ramadan fast-related activities, targeting communities near remote border areas known for repeated cross-border movements of armed groups. Survivors reported that gunmen arrived in large numbers on motorcycles, opening fire indiscriminately and setting homes ablaze, triggering panic and mass displacement.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as villagers fled into surrounding bush paths while others attempted to rescue family members trapped in burning structures. Several victims were reportedly killed while trying to escape, while many others sustained gunshot wounds. Community leaders said the casualty figure could rise as search efforts continue for missing persons.
Security officials confirmed that troops and other security operatives were deployed to the affected locations and have engaged the assailants in ongoing clearance operations. Military sources indicated that reinforcements were sent to prevent the attackers from regrouping or crossing into neighboring territories, a tactic frequently used by armed groups operating in the North-West region.
Authorities said aerial surveillance and ground patrols have been intensified to track the movement of the bandits, while medical teams and emergency responders were mobilized to treat the injured. Several survivors have been evacuated to nearby health facilities, many in critical condition.
Residents of adjoining communities have begun fleeing toward safer towns amid fears of follow-up attacks, with humanitarian concerns mounting over food, shelter, and medical needs. Local officials warned that the displacement could worsen if security conditions do not stabilize quickly.
Security analysts note that the porous borders in the region have allowed armed groups to move between states and neighboring countries, complicating containment efforts. They emphasized the need for sustained intelligence-driven operations and stronger border controls to curb recurring attacks on rural populations.
Government authorities have appealed for calm, assuring residents that operations will continue until the perpetrators are neutralized and normalcy restored. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the attack and the exact number of casualties.
