37 people killed in Niger and Benue states due to bandits' attack

A total of 37 people including two monarchs have been killed in Niger and Benue states as a result of bandits’ attack. The bandits attacked Madaka village in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State which resulted in casualties of more than 20 people.

The bandits reportedly invaded the Madaka village around 3 p.m. on March 21, 2024, and opened fire indiscriminately which killed 28 people. They seized and burnt homes and shops.

Two monarchs, 28 others killed in Niger, seven in Benue – https://t.co/eaC3HBSWEj
— Television Nigerian (@tvnigerian) March 22, 2024

Bandits killed Madaka village head, Saleh Kakuri, and Commander Iko, the Deputy Commander of a security group in Madaka District of Rafi.

The attack also resulted in the death of monarchs named Salihu Immahuri and Anguwan Bala. Bandits also killed their wives. Among those killed were Adamu Immahuri, the deceased ruler’s brother as well as his four wives including Shehu Salihu and Jamila Isah.

A resident of Madaka village told the media the people recovered 30 dead bodies. The bandits continued to create havoc for hours without receiving any response from security forces.

Isah is the District Head of Madaka. He confirmed the occurrence of the massacre in a phone conversation with Nigerian media. He said bandits burned more than 50 houses, including shops, automobiles, and motorcycles.

Meanwhile, Nigerian media claimed they made several attempts to reach Niger State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun by phone. But they were unsuccessful. He did, however, send a brief SMS stating he did not know the details of the attack.

Similarly, bandits have killed seven people in Yongia Uambie Tiev in the Local Government Area of Benue state. The Community leader, Anawah Joseph said bandits arrived in large numbers to attack the village. They had modern weaponry.

Click here to read updates on the Nigerian army killed terrorists in Taraba after a heavy clash

Anawah clarified the armed bandits arrived in groups of up to 500. They began an attack on March 19, 2024, around 4 p.m. and lasted until 8 p.m. on March 21, 2024. He said he didn’t believe they came to feed on but to attack.

However, according to Nigerian media, their attempts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene of Benue were unsuccessful. Hence, she did not answer phone calls or respond to a text message given to her.

This week turned out bloody as 37 people including two monarchs have been killed in Niger and Benue states.