Nigeria: 11 killed in Kebbi village attacks

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the killing of 11 people and the destruction of six villages in a reprisal by Lakurawa militants in the Arewa Local Government Area.

The attack, which occurred on Sunday, was reportedly in response to the killing of a militant leader, Maigemu, by security forces.

According to local sources, who shunned to be identified for security reasons, the assailants stormed Birnin Dede and nearby communities, setting homes ablaze. Only one village was spared, due to the presence of military personnel.

Confirming the incident, the Kebbi State police spokesperson, Nafiu Abubakar, told our correspondent on Monday that while initial reports suggested 13 deaths and eight villages destroyed, investigations confirmed 11 fatalities and two critically injured victims.

“The attack happened on Sunday. They targeted six villages, killing 11 people and leaving two others in critical condition. We are on their trail, and God willing, we will apprehend them soon,” Abubakar disclosed.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Arewa Local Government Council, Alhaji Sani Aliyu, disclosed that the victims had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

He also reiterated that the attack was in retaliation for the recent security operation that led to the elimination of Maigemu, a notorious bandit leader, as part of efforts to curb terrorism in the region.

Security forces have since intensified efforts to track down the attackers and restore calm in the affected communities.