At least 20 people, including security personnel, have been killed by armed men in Nigeria, while an unspecified number of others were abducted during coordinated attacks on communities in the northwestern part of Niger State.
The incident, confirmed by police and residents late Tuesday, marks another episode of persistent violence in the region.
The incident occurred in Shiroro Local Government Area, an area known for the activities of kidnapping gangs and Islamist militants.
According to the state police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, the assailants stormed Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday. He explained that when security operatives responded, two local vigilantes and a driver lost their lives, while others sustained injuries.
However, residents gave a higher casualty figure, claiming that no fewer than 20 people were killed. They added that the attackers razed houses and operated for hours, overpowering security forces deployed to the area.
Residents further disclosed that several villagers fled to neighbouring communities, including Gwada Zumba and Galadima Kogo, to escape the violence.
The renewed attacks highlight Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, as President Bola Tinubu continues to advocate for the establishment of state police across the country’s 36 states as part of efforts to address insecurity.
