Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
A Nigerian soldier, Abdulwahab Lawal, has been killed in an ambush by suspected bandits while travelling to his duty post in Zamfara State, according to accounts from family members and local sources.
Lawal was reportedly en route to resume official duties after departing from Malumfashi in Katsina State when gunmen attacked travellers along the road. Witnesses familiar with the incident said the attackers opened fire on vehicles, causing panic among passengers. Lawal was shot during the assault and died from his injuries at the scene.
The precise location of the ambush has not been independently confirmed, and security authorities had not released an official statement at the time of filing this report. It remains unclear whether other travellers were injured or abducted during the incident.
Local sources attributed the attack to armed groups commonly described as bandits, who have operated across parts of Zamfara and neighbouring states for several years. These groups are known for targeting highways, rural communities and security personnel in ambush-style attacks, often aimed at robbery, kidnapping for ransom or retaliation against security operations.
Zamfara State has been at the centre of persistent armed violence in Nigeria’s northwest, with repeated confrontations between security forces and criminal networks entrenched in forested areas. Military and police operations, including aerial surveillance and ground offensives, have been conducted periodically to dismantle bandit camps and disrupt supply routes. Despite these efforts, attacks on roadways and isolated settlements continue to occur.
The killing of a serving soldier while travelling to resume duty underscores the volatility of road security in parts of the region. Security analysts have repeatedly warned that major inter-state routes linking Zamfara, Katsina and other northwestern states remain vulnerable, particularly in areas bordering forest corridors used as transit and hideout points by armed groups.
Family members confirmed Lawal’s death and stated that funeral prayers would be conducted in accordance with Islamic rites. They described him as committed to his service and expressed grief over the circumstances of his killing.
As investigations proceed, attention is likely to focus on the security conditions along key travel routes frequently used by civilians and military personnel. Authorities are expected to assess the circumstances surrounding the ambush and determine whether enhanced patrols or additional deployments are required in the affected corridor.
Further details are anticipated pending official confirmation from military or police spokespersons.
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