No fewer than 13 people have been reportedly killed by suspected bandits in Niger State on Wednesday.
The victims were said to be working on their farms in the Shiroro Local Government Area, when they were attacked.
The Niger State’s Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, condemned the attack in a statement released on Thursday, describing it as “satanic, insensible, atrocious and callous.”
He expressed concern over the brutal nature of the killings, and said it “utterly appalling and deeply disturbing” that such a “barbaric and vicious act” could be inflicted on innocent people.
Garba extended condolences to the grieving families and the entire Shiroro community. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to restoring peace and security throughout Niger State, and emphasised that efforts to protect lives and property would be intensified.
The Deputy Governor also urged security agencies to remain resolute in their fight against criminal elements and assured them of the state government’s unwavering support in the efforts.
In March, bandits abducted over 20 women during an attack on a market in Madaka community, Rafi LGA of Niger state.
Attacks on farmers in Nigeria’s northern region have worsened the country’s food security crisis,
In March 2024, bandits abducted over 20 women during an attack on a market in the Madaka community, located in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident follows a growing violence in the region, where attacks on civilians, particularly farmers, have become alarmingly frequent.
The attacks, which target rural communities in Nigeria’s northern region, have exacerbated the country’s food security crisis.
With farmers increasingly afraid to tend to their farms, agricultural productivity has largely declined, which is threatening food supply and livelihoods across the nation.