A wave of coordinated bandit attacks has left Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State reeling, as at least 16 vigilante members were killed and more than 40 residents abducted in a series of violent raids stretching from last Sunday to Thursday.
According to Daily Trust, the assaults, which residents described as “relentless and unsettling,” forced entire villages to empty out as people fled to safer settlements.
Moreover, the attacks have sparked renewed anxiety across the area, particularly among communities already burdened by frequent security breaches.
A resident familiar with the incidents explained to the aforementioned publication that the first strike occurred in Dutsen Magaji on Sunday, where gunmen swept in and seized 22 villagers.
According to him, the local vigilante group immediately attempted a rescue but walked into a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“Those men stood their ground even when they knew the odds were against them,” the resident said.
“Three of them died on the spot, and several people are still receiving treatment at the hospital. Their courage was heartbreaking to watch.”
However, what followed on Thursday morning deepened the tragedy. The attackers reportedly returned at dawn, this time targeting Magama village while worshippers were observing early morning prayers.
Residents said the gunmen surrounded the mosque, yanking worshippers out before disappearing into the bush with more than 20 captives.
Vigilantes who attempted to pursue the kidnappers were ambushed. Thirteen of them were killed in the surprise attack.
One source described the scene as “an orchestrated massacre,” adding that the bandits “knew exactly where to wait.”
The Press Secretary to the Mashegu LGA Chairman, Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, later confirmed the killings, praising the vigilantes for standing firm in defence of their people.
“These brave men paid the ultimate price to protect their communities,” Bokuta said in a statement.
“Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and the local government remains indebted to their courage.”
When reached for comments, the Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, noted that the command was verifying the details and would provide an update once investigations conclude.
Furthermore, widespread fear has pushed residents out of several villages since Monday.
Many families are now taking refuge in Mashegu town, Kawo-Mashegu, Manigi, and other neighbouring communities. Those without accommodation are reportedly staying with relatives in distant locales.
Among the villages now deserted are Dutsen Magaji, Borin-Aiki, Gidan Ruwa and Magama.