Gunmen have reportedly killed at least 20 people in several communities in Niger state and scores in Kebbi.
Reuters reports that the Niger state attack occurred in Shiroro LGA. Residents said the assailants operated for hours, destroying homes and overwhelming security personnel.
Many villagers were said to have fled to nearby towns such as Gwada, Zumba, and Galadima Kogo for safety.
Wasiu Abiodun, public relations officer of the Niger state police command, confirmed that gunmen invaded Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday.
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According to the spokesperson, two community guards and a driver were killed, while others sustained injuries.
KEBBI ATTACK
Suspected bandits wreaked similar havoc in Kebbi communities, killing dozens of residents and setting houses ablaze.
According to TheCable, cleric said that the attacks occurred in Debbe and Shabanda, as well as nearby communities.
Bashir Usman, the Kebbi police spokesperson, confirmed the development to TheCable, while noting that the number of casualties is still unclear.
“At about 2230hrs, suspected Mamudawa terrorist elements attacked the villages, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property,” Usman said.
“Police tactical teams from Illo Division swiftly responded, intercepted the attackers, neutralised two of them, and recovered a Niger Republic Army uniform as well as 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 that more security personnel have been deployed to prevent further attacks in the area.
“Security personnel have been reinforced and are actively on ground to forestall further attacks,” he added.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm as more details will be communicated in due course.”
