By Maryam Shuaibu
At least 20 residents have been killed following a deadly attack by suspected bandits on Fesken Rafi community in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State, authorities have said.
The attack, which occurred earlier this week, has left the community in mourning and renewed concerns over persistent insecurity in parts of the state.
During a condolence visit to the affected area on Saturday, Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Tafida, led a government delegation to sympathise with families of the victims and assess the situation on the ground.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Tafida described the killings as tragic and assured residents that the state government would intensify efforts to improve security and prevent further attacks.
“We share in your grief and remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across Kebbi State,” he said.
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The deputy governor announced plans to strengthen security operations in the area through the deployment of additional personnel and operational resources aimed at restoring normalcy to the community.
Local officials told the delegation that the attack resulted in heavy casualties and widespread fear among residents.
Chairman of Arewa Local Government Area, Sani Tela, and the member representing Arewa Constituency in the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Nuradeen Kangiwa, said the community was still grappling with the aftermath of the violence.
They commended the administration of Governor Nasir Idris for what they described as a prompt response to the incident and ongoing efforts to tackle security threats across the state.
Traditional leaders who received the delegation also acknowledged the government’s intervention but called for additional measures to improve security in the area.
Among them were the Dikkon Kabi, Alhaji Kabiru Sulaiman, who represented the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, and the District Head of Bui, Alhaji Abubakar Dan-Malam.
The traditional rulers appealed to the state government to construct a road linking Fesken Rafi to the main highway, arguing that easier access would enable faster security responses, boost economic activities and improve the welfare of residents.
The latest killings highlight the continuing security challenges facing rural communities in Kebbi State, where bandit attacks have remained a major concern despite ongoing military and security operations.