Terror In Sokoto: Bandits Kidnap Deputy Governor’s Relatives In Fresh Attack

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers arrived around 1:00am on Thursday on about eight motorcycles, shooting sporadically as they invaded the community. The gunfire forced residents to flee into nearby bushes and other safe areas to escape.

A local source told Daily Trust that the attackers operated freely in the village for nearly two hours without any immediate security intervention. The resident described the incident as one of the most intense attacks the community has experienced, adding that fear has become a constant part of daily life.

Another witness said the assailants initially abducted about 30 people, mostly women and children, but later released some due to limited space on their motorcycles. Ultimately, they left with eight victims—three men and five women.

Those kidnapped were identified as Hassana Adare Maifata, Rabi Alhaji Ishaqa, Kwamuso Umar, Yar’aji Garba, Kabiru Alkasim, Sani Muazu, Jadi Alkasim (a patient), and a woman believed to be related to the deputy governor.

The attackers were also reported to have raided a phone charging shop in the village, stealing over 100 mobile phones, power banks, and about ₦40,000 in cash after the operator fled the scene.

Residents expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in the area, calling on authorities, including the deputy governor, to urgently intervene and strengthen security presence.

One resident lamented that despite their ties to the deputy governor, they feel abandoned in the face of repeated attacks, urging immediate action to prevent further incidents.