The Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State came under heavy attack in the early hours of Sunday as heavily armed bandits invaded the c...
The Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State came under heavy attack in the early hours of Sunday as heavily armed bandits invaded the community around 1:00 a.m.
Eyewitnesses and local officials said the attackers, numbering over 500, stormed the area on about 400 motorcycles, with two gunmen per bike—each reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles. The coordinated assault triggered panic among residents.
According to reports confirmed by correspondents, troops of the Nigerian Army swiftly responded and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel that lasted several minutes. One military vehicle was said to have sustained significant damage, including burst tyres and shattered parts.
Confirming the incident in a telephone interview, the Executive Chairman of Rijau Local Government, Hon. Danladi K. Uganda, described the attack as one of the most daring in recent times. He commended the gallantry of the Nigerian soldiers who confronted the attackers despite being outnumbered.
“The bandits invaded Rijau around 1:20 a.m., fully armed and in large numbers. Our soldiers engaged them courageously, though one of their vehicles was damaged during the exchange. As we speak, the bandits have retreated into the forests of Magama Local Government and Duku town. They may regroup and return, hence the need for urgent reinforcement,” the chairman said.
Hon. Uganda appealed to the Niger State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately deploy additional troops and logistics to sustain the offensive and prevent the terrorists from regrouping.
“It’s painful and disheartening that armed bandits now freely invade our areas — Rijau, Salka, Ibeto, and neighbouring communities bordering Kebbi State. We must act fast to protect our people,” he lamented.
The chairman also urged the Niger State Governor, Rt. Hon. Umaru Mohammed Bago, to continue supporting efforts aimed at ending the recurring attacks.
He further commended the resilience of the Nigerian Army and other security operatives for their tireless efforts in defending communities across the state.
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