Suspected bandits believed to be members of the Lakurawa group stormed a church in Zagani village, Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State on Sunday, abducting several female worshippers during a church service.
The Chairman of Danko-Wasagu LGA, Hussaini Aliyu Bena, confirmed the attack and said the victims were taken away by the gunmen who invaded the village, located near the Zamfara border.
“We are yet to get the names of the victims due to poor network coverage in the area. No contact has been established with anyone regarding their whereabouts,” Bena stated.
He expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing trend, alleging that some bandits who may have reached agreements with authorities in Zamfara now see neighbouring Kebbi as a vulnerable target for attacks and abductions.
Bena recalled that an earlier effort to deploy security forces to the area last year was disrupted by the rainy season. However, he said fresh arrangements have now been finalised for a full-scale deployment to bolster security in the border communities.
According to him, villages like Dan Kade and Yar Tasha that were previously under siege have seen improved security due to increased military presence. This has allowed displaced farmers to return to their farmlands and led to the closure of some internally displaced persons’ (IDP) camps.
Although the exact name of the affected church and the identities of the abducted victims remain unknown, Bena assured that further details would emerge as rescue efforts continue.
The Kebbi State Government also confirmed the incident, stating that at least 10 worshippers were abducted. Speaking to journalists, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris, added that some church members were injured during the attack.
As of the time of this report, the Kebbi State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
