Bandits Launch Another Deadly Attack in Kaduna, Claiming Lives in Mosque

In yet another harrowing incident, bandits have ruthlessly attacked a mosque in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, resulting in the tragic death of two worshippers. The assault occurred at the Anguwar Makera Mosque in the Kwasakwasa community during the Friday afternoon prayers, around 2 p.m. local time. Despite the horrifying nature of the incident, the police authorities in Kaduna have not officially confirmed the attack.

According to community leader Sani Usman, who shared details of the attack with Channels Television, the armed bandits stormed the mosque and opened fire on the unsuspecting worshippers. The attackers left a trail of devastation, claiming the lives of two individuals during the assault. The Muslim worshippers were reportedly observing the second round of the Salat prayers when the assailants struck, leading the remaining attendees to flee for their lives.

This recent act of violence comes on the heels of another distressing incident, where 287 students and pupils were kidnapped by bandits from a government secondary and primary school in Kuriga community, located in the Chikun Local Government Area. The horrifying events have left the community and the nation grappling with the security challenges posed by these criminal elements.

The wave of insecurity has prompted condemnations and calls for swift action from various quarters. President Bola Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser Ajuri Ngelale, expressed deep concern for the victims and directed security and intelligence agencies to ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted children. Describing the victims as "very vulnerable," President Tinubu emphasized the importance of administering decisive justice against the perpetrators.

Similarly, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) voiced its concerns through its representative in Nigeria, Christian Munduate. UNICEF lamented the attack on the school in Kuriga, asserting that Nigerian children deserve a peaceful learning environment. The organization emphasized that schools should be sanctuaries for learning and growth, not places marred by fear and violence. UNICEF called for immediate action to secure the safe return of the abducted children and staff, urging authorities to implement comprehensive measures to enhance school security across Nigeria.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State visited the Kuriga community to commiserate with the affected residents. During the visit, he assured the community of the government's commitment to the safe and timely return of the kidnapped children. Governor Sani conveyed his deep sympathy for the victims and pledged that security agencies are diligently working to secure their release. He further reiterated his administration's unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity in Kaduna State.

The persistent wave of bandit attacks in the North-Western part of the country has triggered public outcry and protests. Residents in various communities, including Goningora in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and Kankara Local Government Area in Katsina State, have taken to the streets to voice their grievances against the escalating banditry. The protests reflect the growing frustration and fear among citizens, demanding urgent and effective measures to curb the menace.

As the nation grapples with these security challenges, the spotlight remains on the authorities to take decisive actions to protect citizens, secure communities, and bring perpetrators to justice. The tragic incidents in Kaduna underscore the urgency of addressing the root causes of insecurity, enhancing intelligence capabilities, and implementing robust security measures to safeguard lives and restore peace to affected regions. The collaboration between the government, security agencies, and the public is pivotal in overcoming these daunting security threats and fostering a safer environment for all Nigerians.