Six worshippers have been confirmed dead and three others injured after suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The gunmen reportedly stormed the mosque on Wednesday evening while congregants were observing prayers and opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic and chaos within the community.
Police Confirm Reprisal Attack
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Bashir Usman, confirmed the incident and described it as a reprisal attack. According to him, the assault followed a failed ambush on troops of the Nigerian Army.
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He explained that the sequence of events began on February 24, when the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgha Koughna, was attacked while en route to visit frontline troops deployed in the state.
According to the police spokesperson, the GOC’s convoy came under heavy gunfire near Mayama Hill as it navigated through a forested area. Troops reportedly responded with superior firepower, engaging the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
Security forces said five suspected terrorists were neutralised during the confrontation, effectively foiling the ambush attempt.
Casualties and Burial
Following the mosque attack, authorities initially confirmed that five worshippers died from gunshot wounds, while three others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured victims were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment.
However, during funeral prayers held in the community, six bodies were presented for burial. Local sources later confirmed that six individuals lost their lives in the attack and were laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.
The incident has heightened security concerns in the area, as residents call for increased protection to prevent further violence. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to track down those responsible and restore peace to the affected community.
