Hussaini Kafi in Kano
At least 15 farmers have been confirmed dead and three others injured following a deadly attack by suspected bandits on Waje community in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The tragic incident, which occurred in the early hours of the week, has thrown the agrarian community into mourning, as residents continue to reel from the brutal assault believed to have been carried out by armed groups exploiting the region’s porous borders.
During a condolence visit to the residence of the District Head of Waje on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris, the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Tafida, expressed deep sympathy with the grieving families and the entire community.
“The state government is profoundly saddened by this tragedy,” Senator Tafida stated. “We are here to share in your grief and offer our support to the families of the deceased and those injured.”
He announced a financial donation from the Kebbi State Government to assist the bereaved families and cover the medical expenses of the injured victims. Tafida described the gesture as “a modest effort” by the government during this period of hardship.
The deputy governor also reiterated the state’s commitment to improving security across the region, particularly in rural farming communities. “We will take necessary steps to tackle insecurity and ensure that farmers can return to their farmlands without fear,” he said.
Receiving the delegation, the District Head of Waje, Hon. Bala Danbaba, thanked the government for the prompt visit and the relief support provided. He described the gesture as timely and impactful, noting that it had brought some solace to a community in mourning.
“The visit and support have shown that the government has not abandoned us,” Danbaba said. “However, we urge the state and federal authorities to do more to protect us, especially given our vulnerability.”
He emphasised that Waje and surrounding areas in Danko Wasagu share borders with Niger, Zamfara, and Sokoto states, making them easy targets for cross-border criminal activities. “We appeal for enhanced security patrols and the closure of entry points frequently used by these attackers,” he added.
The Chairman of Danko Wasagu Local Government Area, Alhaji Hussaini Aliyu Bena, confirmed the casualty figure, stating that 15 farmers lost their lives while three others sustained injuries during the attack.
“This is not the first time our people are being attacked while working on their farms. We need lasting security measures to prevent further loss of lives,” he lamented.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Northwestern Nigeria, where armed groups, commonly referred to as bandits, have carried out widespread killings, abductions, and destruction of properties. The region, known for its agricultural activities, has increasingly come under threat, putting food security and livelihoods at risk.
As the farming season approaches, local residents and leaders are calling on both state and federal governments to urgently address the growing insecurity in border communities and ensure that farmers are adequately protected to avert further disruption to agricultural production.
