Bandits stormed the palace of the Emir of Zurmi, Alhaji Bello Muhammad Bunu, resulting in the loss of three lives and the abduction of several residents.
The attack, which occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, also targeted the residence of former Military Administrator of Nasarawa State, Colonel Bala Muhammad Mande (rtd), according to eyewitnesses.
“While Col. Mande was not present, Emir Bunu was in the palace during the assault,” revealed a source. The bandits, aiming for the emir, attempted to breach the palace entrance, destroying a GSM mast and burning two generators nearby.
A resident, speaking anonymously, recounted, “Gladly, the gate was locked, otherwise they would have gained access into the palace and probably reached the emir’s apartment.” The emir had recently returned to Zurmi after surviving a prior kidnapping attempt, seeking refuge in Gusau for a week.
After failing to breach the palace, the assailants targeted the former military administrator’s residence, firing multiple shots and causing damage to the gate. As they departed, they left a trail of violence, killing three individuals and abducting others.
Residents, fearing further attacks, fled into the bush for safety. “We are calling on the government to provide enough soldiers to the town because the bandits may return again,” urged a concerned resident. Muhammad Inuwa, considering relocating his family to Gusau, highlighted the unbearable burden of living amidst banditry.
“We are struggling to cope with the economic situation and at the same time battling with banditry,” he lamented. He appealed to authorities for increased security measures to safeguard lives and property in the region.