15 Killed In Katsina Attack

At least 15 people have been confirmed dead following a violent breakdown of relations between local groups in Jibia local government area, the Katsina State government has said.

The clash, which occurred in Falale and Kadobe villages, was reportedly triggered by a confrontation between vigilantes and suspected repentant bandits.

The authorities said the initial encounter led to the killing of three persons, sparking a reprisal attack that escalated into wider violence across the communities.

In a statement, the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs said security operatives, including personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), Civilian Joint Task Force (C-JTF) and community leaders, were swiftly deployed to the area.

The combined efforts of the security agencies and local stakeholders, according to the government, helped to restore calm and prevent further casualties.

The commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, appealed to residents to remain calm and allow security agencies to carry out a full investigation into the incident.

He assured them that the government would ensure justice for the victims while taking steps to prevent future occurrences.

The administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that Jibia had experienced relative peace over the past year due to ongoing security strategies.

The residents were also urged to cooperate with authorities by reporting suspicious activities, as the government emphasised that community support is vital to sustaining peace across the state.

Jibia LGA has enjoyed peace in the last one year due to the negotiated deal reached with bandits in the area.

The Katsina State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Abubakar Aliyu Sadiq, confirmed the incident, stating that normalcy had been restored and that an investigation had commenced.