The death toll from bandit attacks in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State has risen to 50, according to the lawmaker representing the constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Aminu Ibrahim.
Ibrahim, speaking on the floor of the House, said the assailants killed 30 worshippers and burned 20 others alive in separate attacks across villages in his constituency.
The fresh violence occurred in Gidan Adamu Mantau, Unguwar Yar Mai Dabo, and Makera villages in Karfi Ward, as well as Burdigau community in Yaba Ward, leaving residents in shock and despair.
‘We raised the alarm, but soldiers withdrew’
The lawmaker revealed that villagers had reported suspicious movements of bandits around Burdigau between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday. Soldiers, however, only arrived much later and eventually withdrew without securing the area.
By dawn on Tuesday, the attackers stormed Unguwar Mantau, opening fire on worshippers during morning prayers.
“The situation has become unbearable. Our people can no longer live in their villages because of these relentless attacks,” Ibrahim said, appealing for permanent security bases in Karfi and Yaba wards.
Escalating fears
The disclosure triggered concerns among lawmakers over worsening insecurity in Katsina communities, despite ongoing military operations. Residents say they are trapped in what feels like a “daily war of survival.”
Government reaction
Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the tragedy, describing it as a reprisal attack.
“The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community. The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting sporadically,” he told journalists.
He added that the state government had ordered immediate security reinforcements and support for affected residents.
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