Deadly Bandit Attack in Sokoto Leaves Imam and Worshipper Dead, Several Abducted
Several worshippers have reportedly been abducted after bandits launched a deadly assault on a mosque in Kiba Ruwa, Sabon-Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, early Saturday. The exact number of those kidnapped remains unverified.
Local sources told Egbe Mekun Parrots that the assailants stormed the mosque during Subh prayer at dawn, opening fire on congregants. Two people, including the imam leading the prayer, were confirmed dead.
Security agencies have been alerted, while residents remain fearful as search and rescue operations commence.
Related Incident in Kebbi State
In Kebbi State, a similar attack occurred weeks ago at the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in the Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, where 26 schoolgirls were abducted.
Investigations revealed that soldiers previously stationed at the school had been summoned to Abuja for questioning, raising concerns over why the security post was vacated shortly before the attack.
Governor Nasir Idris expressed alarm over the withdrawal of military personnel from the school, particularly as intelligence had warned of a possible assault. “As a responsive government, when we received intelligence on a potential attack, we convened a security meeting. Security agencies assured us all was well, and personnel would be mobilised,” Idris said.
He added that the troops were deployed but withdrew by 3:00 a.m., and the attack occurred at 3:45 a.m. The governor has demanded a thorough inquiry into who authorised the withdrawal of military personnel.
The Maga District Head, Muhammad Dantani, also voiced serious concerns about the role of the Nigerian military in the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability after armed bandits killed a staff member and abducted 25 students.
