Gunmen riding motorcycles have launched violent attacks on three villages in northern Nigeria, killing at least 46 people and abducting several others.
The raids occurred in the Borgu local government area of Niger State, near the borders with Kwara and Katsina states. The deadliest attack took place in the village of Konkoso, where at least 38 residents were shot or had their throats slit. Many homes were set on fire, and additional bodies are reportedly being recovered.
Residents said the assailants first targeted the nearby village of Tungar Makeri before moving on to Konkoso.
These attacks highlight the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria, where armed groups linked to extremist organizations and criminal gangs continue to terrorize communities and abduct people for ransom.
The Niger State police confirmed the assault on Tunga-Makeri, reporting that six people were killed, homes burned, and a number of villagers abducted. The attackers then proceeded to Konkoso, while details of other raids remain unclear.
Witnesses described the assailants moving freely, shooting indiscriminately, with some residents reporting the sound of military jets overhead, yet no immediate security presence to halt the violence.
The region, which borders Niger and Kwara states, includes the Kainji Forest, known as a stronghold for bandits and fighters, including those linked to Boko Haram.
Religious and community leaders from Borgu have urged the government to establish a military base in the area to curb the frequent attacks and protect local communities.
