Suspected bandits have reportedly killed the Chief Imam of Kuda-Kuda village in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, along with three other residents, during a deadly overnight attack that also left several people abducted.
According to residents, the attackers stormed the village at about 12:58 a.m. on Thursday and operated for nearly two hours, firing gunshots sporadically, rustling cattle, and forcing terrified villagers to flee their homes.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said the sound of gunfire threw the entire community into panic.
“We were maintaining vigil when we heard gunfire from several places. We ran home, woke our families, and fled to the outskirts of the village to save our lives,” he said.
The source alleged that the gunmen moved from house to house, kidnapping residents, particularly married women.
He added that three victims who sustained gunshot wounds to the chest are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Sokoto, but their condition remains critical.
The victims confirmed dead were identified as Chief Imam Liman Audu, Yahaya Hasanu, Zahara Muazu, and Ibrahim Dayyabu.
Those reportedly abducted include Malam Shehu Farar Zaki, Yar Yamma, Khadija, and six other residents.
Another resident claimed the attackers first invaded the Chief Imam’s residence and killed him before confronting three young men and ordering them to accompany them into the forest.
According to the witness, when the youths refused, the bandits allegedly opened fire and killed them on the spot.
Residents lamented the absence of security personnel during the attack, noting that Kuda-Kuda village has suffered repeated bandit invasions over the years.
One local disclosed that this was the 11th attack on the community, expressing frustration over the continued insecurity despite repeated appeals for government intervention.
As of the time of filing the report, efforts to obtain reactions from the Sokoto State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufai, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), were unsuccessful.
The latest attack adds to the growing wave of violence in eastern Sokoto State, where residents continue to call for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.
💬 Reactions
This is heartbreaking. How many more innocent lives have to be lost before lasting action is taken?
May the souls of those killed rest in peace, and may the injured recover quickly.
Residents deserve protection. Communities shouldn’t have to live in constant fear of attacks.
Chai! This one too painful. How person go dey sleep for him village and still no safe? Government need act fast. 😢
11 attacks on the same community? E no suppose reach this level. People just want to live their lives in peace.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
