Bandits invaded the Dekara community in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, abducting an unspecified number of residents shortly after Friday prayers. The attack occurred between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. when armed men stormed the community as residents gathered at a mosque.
Borgu Local Government Area Chairman, Nasiru Abdullahi, confirmed the incident, stating that Dekara and other locations like Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida, and Masata were affected. Authorities are still gathering information to determine the number of abducted individuals. Efforts are underway with security agencies to rescue those taken and restore security.
A survivor alleged the attackers were from the Lakurawa group, claiming some residents were killed during the assault. The attackers reportedly targeted residents with guns, knives, and machetes, accusing them of deviating from Islamic teachings. This involvement and the casualties have not been independently confirmed.
Niger State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, indicated an update was forthcoming but remained unprovided at the time of publication. Consequently, details on abductions and casualties remain unclear.
The incident has elevated security concerns in Borgu, particularly near Kainji Lake. Residents near Kainji Lake National Park and along the boundary with Kwara State are awaiting further security interventions to establish the status of those abducted and ensure their safe return.
