At least four people are feared to have lost their lives following coordinated attacks by suspected bandits on two communities and a healthcare facility in Niger State, leaving residents in fear and forcing many families to flee their homes.
According to information gathered from local sources, the attackers stormed the affected villages during the assault, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents. The gunmen reportedly moved from one community to another, targeting homes, destroying property, and creating confusion as people ran for safety.
During the attack, the assailants also invaded a nearby hospital, disrupting medical services and forcing healthcare workers and patients to seek refuge. Although the extent of damage to the medical facility was not immediately confirmed, hospital activities were reportedly suspended temporarily as security concerns mounted.
Residents said the incident lasted for several hours before the attackers retreated into nearby forests. The attacks left several people with varying degrees of injuries, while others remain unaccounted for, raising fears that the death toll could increase after ongoing search and rescue efforts.
Security personnel were later deployed to the affected communities to restore order, assess the situation, and begin operations aimed at tracking down the perpetrators. Authorities have also intensified patrols in the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
Community leaders condemned the violence, describing it as another tragic setback for communities already struggling with recurring insecurity. They appealed to the government to strengthen security presence across vulnerable areas and provide humanitarian assistance to displaced families.
Residents have also called for sustained military operations against criminal groups operating in forested areas around the state, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through decisive action against those responsible for the repeated attacks.
As of the time of filing this report, officials were still assessing the full extent of casualties and property damage, while investigations into the incident continue.