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 villages deserted.
According to reports, bandits invaded Dutsen Magaji village on Sunday, November 9, abducting 22 people. A resident who wished to remain anonymous said that vigilantes engaged the attackers in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of three vigilantes and injuries to five others. The assailants returned on Thursday, November 13, and stormed Magama village during early‑morning prayers, abducting more than 20 people. In the ensuing ambush, thirteen vigilantes were killed and several others wounded.
Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, press secretary to the chairman of Mashegu LGA, confirmed the killings and described the fallen vigilantes as heroes who sacrificed their lives defending their communities. 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, 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 abandoned.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing kidnapping of Alhassan Bawa Niworo, former chairman of the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board, who was abducted on September 29 along with several others. Although a ransom of N70 million has been paid, Niworo remains in captivity.
Insecurity in Niger State has led to significant displacement, leaving many people living in fear of further attacks and kidnappings. Nigerian authorities are under pressure to address the crisis and provide adequate security for the affected communities. The recent attacks underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of banditry and kidnapping in the region.
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