Suspected armed bandits attacked the Madaka community in Rafi local government area of Niger State on Thursday at 3:00 pm, killing over 21 persons, including the village head.
The perpetrators reportedly set fire to over 50 houses and shops, including the marketplace. They fired sporadic gunshots in different directions, as people scampered for safety.
The attack led to the death of 21 individuals, including the community head. Several other villages were abducted to a yet-to-be-identified location.
The district head, Isah Bawale, confirmed the incident on Friday. The state commissioner for security, Bello Mohammed further confirmed the incident, adding that security measures were being taken to ensure the protection of vulnerable communities in the state.
Communities in Niger state have experienced a surge in insecurity, recording a terrifying number of wanton killings and abductions.
As a consequence of the unrest, some communities have been deserted. Farmers no longer have access to their farms, and traders evade these areas.
The state government has not released any official statement regarding the incident.