At least 16 vigilante members have been killed and 42 residents kidnapped in a series of bandit attacks across communities in the Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. The attacks, which occurred between November 9 and 13, have left several communities deserted.
According to reports, the bandits invaded Dutsen Magaji village on Sunday, November 9, and abducted 22 people. A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that vigilantes engaged the bandits in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of three vigilantes and injuring five others. The attackers returned on Thursday, November 13, invading Magama village during early morning prayers and abducting over 20 people. Thirteen vigilantes were killed and several others injured in a subsequent ambush.
The press secretary to the chairman of Mashegu LGA, Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, confirmed the killings, describing the fallen vigilantes as heroes who sacrificed their lives in defense of their communities. The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said he would verify the incidents and provide an update.
The repeated attacks have forced many residents to flee their homes, with some seeking refuge in nearby towns such as Mashegu, Kawo-Mashegu, and Manigi. Villages including Dutsen Magaji, Borin-Aiki, Gidan Ruwa, and Magama have been deserted. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing kidnapping of the former Chairman of the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board, Alhassan Bawa Niworo, who was abducted on September 29 along with several others. Despite a ransom payment of N70 million, Niworo’s abductors have yet to release him.
The insecurity in Niger State has led to a significant displacement of people, with many living in fear of attacks and kidnappings. The Nigerian authorities are under pressure to address the situation and provide adequate security for the affected communities. The recent attacks highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of banditry and kidnapping in the region.