By Our Correspondent
Niger State government has condemned the attack on Erena, Bagna and Yelwa communities in Shiroro Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of over 20 persons and many properties.
Describing the attacks, which were reportedly carried out by armed bandits, as senseless, barbaric and inhumane, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, in a statement yesterday, expressed sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Shiroro Local Government Area.
According to sources, the assailants invaded the communities in large numbers, shooting sporadically and setting houses ablaze, causing panic among residents.
“The government of Niger State is deeply pained by this tragic development. These mindless acts of violence against innocent citizens are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We share in the grief of the affected families and assure them that government stands firmly with them in this difficult time,” the SSG said.
Usman assured residents that the state government is working closely with security agencies to intensify operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements across the state.
He called on residents to remain calm and vigilant, urging them to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
The SSG reiterated the commitment of the administration of Governor Umaru Bago to safeguard lives and property, adding that efforts are ongoing to restore lasting peace and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
Residents of Shiroro said the assailants operated for hours, destroying homes and overwhelming security personnel.
Many villagers were said to have fled to nearby towns such as Gwada, Zumba and Galadima Kogo for safety.
The Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the invasion of Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday.
