A late-night assault by suspected bandits has claimed the life of a prominent trader in Kano State, deepening concerns over the growing insecurity confronting communities across Nigeria’s northwest.
During the attack, the assailants reportedly stormed a local business area, shooting a well-known community figure, Alhaji Habibu Mai Shago, inside his shop before looting valuables and escaping without immediate resistance.
Details of the incident were disclosed by security analyst Bakatsine, who reported via his X page on January 27, 2026, that the killing occurred the previous night in Tiga town, Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State.
According to the account, the attackers arrived under the cover of darkness, creating panic among residents and traders in the area.
Moreover, sources familiar with the incident said the gunmen operated swiftly, leaving little opportunity for intervention before they fled.
Reacting to the development, Bakatsine said the killing underscored the persistent threat posed by armed groups operating around rural and semi-urban communities in the region.
He warned that continued attacks on local economies could further erode public confidence in security arrangements.
Furthermore, residents of Tiga described the slain businessman as a respected figure whose enterprise supported several families, noting that his death has left the community in shock and mourning.
The incident occurred on January 26, 2026, adding to a series of recent attacks that have heightened anxiety in parts of Kano and neighbouring states.
Hence, renewed calls are emerging for stronger security deployments and actionable intelligence to curb the spread of banditry and protect lives and livelihoods.