SOKOTO, NIGERIA — Gunmen believed to be bandits have attacked the Ghandi community in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State, killing no fewer than eight farmers and leaving at least five others with gunshot injuries in the latest wave of violence to hit Nigeria’s North-West region.
The attack occurred on Saturday as farmers were working on their farmlands in the agrarian community. According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants arrived on motorcycles and opened fire indiscriminately on the unsuspecting farmers, many of whom were preparing for the harvest season. The attackers, numbering over 30, also reportedly looted food items and livestock before fleeing into the surrounding forest.
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, said the attackers struck in the early hours of the evening when many residents were still on their farms. “They came around 5:30 pm and started shooting. Many people ran for their lives, but some were caught in the crossfire. We have recovered eight bodies so far, and five people are being treated for gunshot wounds,” he said.
The injured victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Rabah for medical attention, with two reportedly in critical condition. Hospital sources confirmed that they had received multiple patients with gunshot injuries, some of whom required emergency surgery.
The attack has forced many residents to flee the community, with some seeking refuge in the nearby Rabah town, while others have relocated to Sokoto metropolis. The latest incident adds to the growing list of violent attacks in Sokoto State, which has seen an uptick in banditry and kidnapping in recent months.
Sokoto State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Rufai Ahmad, confirmed the attack and said security forces had been deployed to the area to prevent further violence. “Our officers are currently on the ground, and we are working to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. We also urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies,” he said.
The attack comes just days after security forces neutralized 10 suspected bandits during a clearance operation in the state. Despite these efforts, the security situation in Nigeria’s North-West remains volatile, with armed groups continuing to terrorize communities, kill farmers, and kidnap residents for ransom.
The Sokoto State Government has condemned the attack and promised to strengthen security measures in vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ending banditry and restoring peace to the region.
