Gunmen suspected to be bandits reportedly carried out a deadly attack on Sunday evening along the Jibia/Batsari Road in Katsina State, resulting in the tragic deaths of nine traders.
The victims were returning from a local market in Jibia when they encountered the assailants around 6 pm.
According to eyewitnesses, the traders were traveling in two vehicles when they were ambushed by the gunmen, who subsequently set fire to both vehicles. One of the drivers and all the traders on board were fatally shot during the attack.
After the incident, community members assisted in transporting the bodies to the Jibia General Hospital, where they were later claimed by their families on Monday morning. The exact number of injured individuals and those taken captive during the attack remains uncertain as of Monday afternoon.
While the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Muazu, has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident, the spokesman for the state police command, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, has not responded to inquiries about the matter.
In contrast, Governor Dikko Radda, speaking at the annual West African Social Activities organized by the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Katsina, emphasized the relative peace in the state. He attributed this to the diligent efforts of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies operating in the region.
Represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Governor Radda commended the Nigerian Army for their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security. He urged them to continue their commendable efforts, highlighting the significance of events like the West African Social Activities in fostering positive relationships between army personnel and host communities.