Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a harrowing incident that underscores the growing insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest, armed bandits struck Askawa village in Ruwan Gizo district, Talata-Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State, on the night of 3 December 2025. The violent raid left two residents dead, including a respected community elder, while five members of a single family were abducted, plunging the village into grief and fear.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers entered the village under the cover of darkness, shooting indiscriminately and creating panic among residents. “They came suddenly, firing into the air and dragging people away from their homes. We ran for our lives,” one survivor recounted, speaking under condition of anonymity. The victims’ families described the community elder as a pillar of guidance and wisdom, whose loss has deeply shaken the village.
This attack is part of a disturbing trend across Zamfara State, where rural communities continue to face repeated raids despite the presence of security forces. Analysts point out that these persistent attacks are fueled by a combination of inadequate security infrastructure, difficult terrain, and the increasing sophistication of bandit groups.
Local vigilante leaders and residents have voiced frustration at the seeming inability of security forces to prevent such attacks. “We live in constant fear. Even with the soldiers and police posted here, these bandits strike at will. We need more than just presence; we need effective protection,” said a community leader.
Security experts emphasize the need for a multi-faceted approach, including enhanced intelligence gathering, proactive patrols, rapid response units, community engagement, and socio-economic development initiatives to address the root causes of banditry. The state government has faced increasing pressure to implement sustainable strategies that can prevent villages from living under the constant shadow of terror.
As the people of Askawa mourn the loss of their loved ones and pray for the safe return of the abducted family members, the incident highlights the urgent need for decisive and coordinated action to curb insecurity in Zamfara State and restore a sense of safety to its rural communities.
Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the raid, while rescue operations for the abducted villagers are reportedly underway.
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