Gunmen, on Tuesday night, killed 10 security personnel — nine soldiers and one police officer — in a deadly ambush on troops in Kebbi State.
The incident occurred in the Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area, where the assailants also burned two military gun trucks and reportedly left several civilians dead or injured.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, confirmed the attack on Wednesday after visiting victims at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi.
Describing the incident as “barbaric and unacceptable,” the governor lamented the loss of the security personnel, who he said died in the line of duty.
“This is a deeply painful and unfortunate incident. These brave soldiers and the police officer were on duty, defending our people. It is tragic that they lost their lives in such circumstances,” he said.
Idris assured that the state government would cover the medical expenses of the injured and provide support to the families of the fallen officers.
“We will not abandon the families of these heroes. The government will take full responsibility for the treatment of those injured and ensure that the families of the deceased are supported,” he added.
He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, noting that efforts were ongoing in collaboration with security agencies to restore peace in affected areas.
“We are working closely with the military and other security agencies to ensure that those behind this attack are brought to justice. We will not relent in securing Kebbi State,” the governor said.
Following his hospital visit, Idris proceeded to Giro Masa for an on-the-spot assessment as security forces intensified operations in the area.
Shanga and neighbouring local government areas have in recent months witnessed sporadic attacks linked to banditry and cross-border crimes, partly due to Kebbi’s proximity to the Niger Republic.
Security experts say the largely rural terrain and porous borders have made parts of the state vulnerable to incursions by armed groups, despite ongoing military operations.
The latest ambush is among the deadliest attacks on security personnel in the state in recent times, raising fresh concerns over the evolving tactics of armed groups, who are increasingly targeting security formations.
Residents have called for a sustained military presence and improved intelligence gathering to prevent further attacks.
