Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has denounced the recent terrorist attacks on communities in Borgu and Agwara Local Government Areas, describing the assaults as cruel and nefarious.
Governor Bago said the victims were drawn from different communities and included both Muslims and Christians, noting that the violence marked a disturbing beginning to the year.
He urged residents of the affected areas to remain steadfast in God despite the tragedy.
The governor stressed that his administration is working in close collaboration with the federal government and security agencies to restore peace in the affected communities.
He disclosed that a joint security task force is currently tracking the terrorists with the aim of rescuing those abducted.
In a statement issued by the state Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Obed Nuhu Nana, it was revealed that the attackers reportedly came from the Kainji Lake National Park and were moving toward Kebbi State and Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State, allegedly out of fear of further strikes from the United States.
The statement said the terrorists attacked Kasuwan Daji market in Sukumbara village, Borgu Local Government Area, where they fired sporadically and killed about 35 people. Most of the victims were from the Kambari and other ethnic groups, including both Christians and Muslims who had gathered at the market.
“The terrorists had earlier killed several people in Shanga LGA, Kebbi State, during their return journey. They also attacked communities in parts of Rijau and Agwara LGAs, killing more innocent people. Additionally, they raided a police outpost in Shafacci village and a Catholic Missionary School in Sukumbara Village, seizing two motorcycles and destroying school property, though no casualties were reported there,” the Commissioner stated.
Governor Bago assured residents that his government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice and lasting security is restored to the affected areas.
