Gunmen kill 20 in Kebbi community

At least 20 people have been killed in a deadly attack by suspected bandits on the Fesken Rafi community in the Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Also, the Kebbi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing the attack as tragic and extending condolences to the families of the victims and residents of the affected community.

Leading a high-powered government delegation on a condolence visit on Saturday, the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Tafida, assured residents that the government remains committed to addressing insecurity and protecting lives and property across the state.

He announced that additional security personnel and operational resources would be deployed to the area to strengthen security operations, restore normalcy, and prevent further attacks.

“We share in your grief and remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across Kebbi State,” the deputy governor said during the visit.

The Chairman of Arewa Local Government Area, Sani Tela, and the member representing Arewa Constituency in the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Nuradeen Kangiwa, told the delegation that the attack occurred a few days ago and resulted in significant loss of life.

They commended Governor Nasir Idris for the administration’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity and for its swift response to the plight of affected communities.

Traditional leaders, including the Dikkon Kabi, Alhaji Kabiru Sulaiman, who represented the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, and the District Head of Bui, Alhaji Abubakar Dan-Malam, also lauded the government’s intervention.

The traditional rulers appealed for the construction of a road linking the Fesken Rafi community to the main highway, noting that improved access would enhance security response, facilitate economic activities, and improve the living conditions of residents.

The latest attack underscores the persistent security challenges confronting rural communities in parts of Kebbi State, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and the state government to curb banditry and related criminal activities. (Punch)