The Kebbi State Government has confirmed the tragic killing of at least 30 residents in the latest series of attacks carried out by suspected bandits in the Zuru Emirate, located in the southern part of the state.
According to the Chairmen of Zuru and Danko Wasagu Local Government Areas, Muhammad Gajere and Hussaini Bena, the coordinated attacks occurred in Tadurga and Kyebu, as well as Yar-Kuka in the Waje District.
“Sixteen people were killed in Tadurga, while 14 others lost their lives in Kyebu and Yar-Kuka,” Gajere stated during a condolence visit by Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Tafida, on Friday.
Bena added that several others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment. He noted that the attackers, who struck under the cover of darkness, also made away with livestock and valuable property belonging to the villagers.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris, Senator Tafida assured the communities that the government is taking urgent steps to forestall future attacks and restore peace.
“The state government expresses deep sorrow over this senseless loss of lives. We are committed to improving the security architecture of Tadurga, Kyebu, and the entire Zuru Emirate,” Tafida said. “All possible entry points to these communities will be blocked to deny attackers access.”
He further offered prayers for the souls of the departed, asking Allah to give their families the strength to bear the painful loss.
During the visit, the Deputy Governor announced a relief donation of ₦50 million to the affected areas, with ₦25 million each allocated to Tadurga and Kyebu.
“This is a modest effort to help the bereaved families begin to rebuild. Their pain is our pain,” he emphasized.
In response to the visit, the Chief of Dabai, Alhaji Suleman Dabai, praised the swift intervention by the government and commended Governor Idris for his proactive leadership in addressing the growing insecurity in the region.
“These attacks are devastating, but the government’s support is encouraging,” the traditional ruler said. “We hope these security measures will bring an end to the recurring violence.”
This recent assault adds to the rising wave of banditry in North-West Nigeria, where several communities continue to face violence and displacement. Humanitarian and security agencies have repeatedly called for stronger federal intervention to address the root causes of rural insecurity.
As the state mourns, residents of the affected villages remain hopeful that the promised measures will bring a lasting end to the tragedy that has gripped their communities.
“We cannot continue to bury our loved ones in fear,” one local youth leader said anonymously. “We need more than relief—we need protection and justice.”
