A fresh attack by armed bandits has left four residents dead and several others injured in Gwargwabe village, located in the Nahuce District of Bungudu Local Government Area, Zamfara State. The assault, which occurred late on Thursday, was reportedly triggered by the community’s refusal to comply with demands for illegal levies imposed by criminal groups operating in the area.
Community leaders said the attackers had attempted to intimidate residents into submission but were met with resistance. According to the District Head of Kekun Nahuce, Alhaji Sulaiman Marafa, the villagers had collectively decided not to pay the levies, opting instead to safeguard their community despite the risks involved.
Sequence of Events
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the bandits first struck the nearby Karakkai community at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. The assailants fired shots into the air, causing widespread panic and forcing residents to flee for safety. However, locals reportedly regrouped and resisted the incursion, compelling the attackers to withdraw from Karakkai.
Following their retreat, the bandits moved on to Gwargwabe village, where they launched a more destructive operation. Several houses were set ablaze during the attack, leading to the deaths of four residents—three men and one woman. In addition to the loss of lives, the fire destroyed at least 10 domestic animals and no fewer than 50 grain silos, dealing a significant blow to the agrarian community’s food security and livelihoods.
Three other residents sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to medical facilities for treatment.
Aftermath and Emergency Response
On Friday morning, joint security forces and emergency responders visited both Karakkai and Gwargwabe to assess the damage and restore order. The injured victims were taken to a hospital in Nahuce, where they are receiving medical care. Local authorities and humanitarian actors have begun efforts to support affected families, including assessing immediate needs such as shelter and food.
The deceased were buried on Friday following funeral prayers attended by community members and government representatives.
Government Reaction
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, confirmed the incident and expressed concern over reports of delays in the arrival of security personnel after the attack was reported. Represented by his deputy, Mani Malam Mummuni, at the burial ceremony, the governor assured residents that the state government is investigating the circumstances surrounding the security response.
In a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Shehu Adamu Gusau, the governor called on residents to remain calm and resilient, describing the tragedy as an “act of destiny.” He reiterated the administration’s commitment to ending banditry and restoring peace across Zamfara State.
As part of immediate measures to prevent further attacks, the government announced plans to establish a military base in Gwargwabe village. The proposed base is expected to enhance surveillance, deter criminal activity, and provide quicker response times in the event of future threats.
Wider Context
Zamfara State has been one of the epicentres of banditry in Nigeria’s North-West, with rural communities frequently targeted for extortion, kidnappings, and violent raids. Criminal groups often demand levies from villages, using violence to punish defiance. Despite ongoing military operations and community-based security initiatives, attacks have persisted, underscoring the challenges facing authorities.
Local leaders have continued to appeal for sustained security presence and improved intelligence gathering, while residents hope the promised military base will bring lasting relief. For now, communities like Gwargwabe are left mourning their losses and rebuilding in the shadow of insecurity.
Source: Africa Publicity
