Panic gripped worshippers on Sunday night after armed bandits launched an attack on Baidi village in Sokoto State while residents were observing the Isha (night) prayers at a local mosque.
The assault reportedly occurred at a moment of religious devotion, catching many villagers off guard as gunshots rang out during the prayer period.
According to a report shared by security analyst Bakatsine on X on Monday, December 29, 2025, the attackers stormed the community. They began shooting, disrupting the calm atmosphere usually associated with night prayers.
As a result of the raid, one resident was shot, while several shops in the village were looted. In addition, a phone-charging point, often relied upon by residents for communication and small-scale income, was also raided by the gunmen.
Baidi village is located about three kilometres from Tangaza town in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
However, despite its proximity to the town, the attackers reportedly operated without immediate resistance, heightening residents’ sense of vulnerability.
Moreover, the fear that the bandits could return shortly after the prayers forced many villagers to flee their homes.
Some residents reportedly abandoned the mosque area and sought refuge in nearby communities or within Tangaza town itself.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the attack as deeply unsettling.
“People were in the mosque praying when the shooting started. Instead of peace, the night turned into fear,” the resident said.
Meanwhile, the incident has once again drawn attention to the recurring pattern of attacks on rural communities in Sokoto State, including assaults carried out during sensitive moments such as religious gatherings.
Bakatsine, while highlighting the incident, questioned why bandit attacks continue unabated in the state despite ongoing security efforts.
However, as of the time of filing this report, neither the Sokoto State Government nor security agencies had issued an official response to the attack.
Furthermore, community members have called for stronger security measures around mosques and villages, particularly during prayer times, warning that without sustained protection, worshippers remain exposed to deadly attacks.