Dare Babalola
Several security personnel, including soldiers and a police officer, have been killed following an ambush by armed gunmen in Kebbi State.
The attack occurred on Tuesday night in the Giro Masa community of Shanga Local Government Area, where security operatives were reportedly targeted while responding to intelligence about the presence of suspected criminals in the area.
Residents said the gunmen, believed to have been active in the locality for some time, were traced to a construction company yard, prompting a deployment of troops after a tip-off.
However, the operatives were ambushed en route to the location, leading to a violent confrontation.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attack resulted in the deaths of an unspecified number of soldiers, a police officer, and two civilians. In the aftermath of the assault, two military trucks were reportedly set ablaze, while the community was thrown into panic.
Although military authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the development on Wednesday.
The governor spoke to journalists after visiting victims at the mortuary and the Accident and Emergency unit of the Federal Teaching Hospital Birnin Kebbi, where those injured in the attack were receiving treatment.
Describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable, Idris assured that the state government would take responsibility for the medical treatment of the injured and provide support to the families of fallen security personnel.
He emphasised the sacrifices made by security forces in protecting lives and property, noting that such attacks underscore the need for sustained efforts to improve security.
The governor also offered prayers for the deceased and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening safety across the state. He subsequently visited the scene of the attack for an on-the-spot assessment.
The incident adds to a growing list of violent attacks targeting security personnel in northern Nigeria, where banditry and insurgency have continued to pose serious challenges despite ongoing military operations.
