Atsi Kefas, the sister of Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, has tragically passed away after being accidentally shot by a police escort last week. The incident occurred as the governor’s family was ambushed by gunmen on Kente Road in Wukari Local Government Area.
Atsi, who had been travelling with her mother, Jumai Kefas, was caught in the crossfire when the police officer accompanying them opened fire to protect the family from the attackers.
In the midst of the confusion, the officer’s shot struck Atsi, causing severe injuries. Sources confirm that she was rushed to a hospital in Abuja for urgent medical care, but tragically succumbed to her injuries late last night.
The incident unfolded last Thursday when Atsi Kefas, along with her mother, was traveling through the volatile region of Wukari. Gunmen, believed to be bandits, ambushed the vehicle. As the attackers began firing at the convoy, the police officer assigned to protect the family responded in a bid to defend them.
In the chaos that followed, the officer accidentally shot Atsi. The gunshot wound was severe, and Atsi was immediately transferred to a hospital in Abuja. Despite efforts to save her, she died from her injuries, leaving behind her grieving family and loved ones.
Sources close to the Kefas family have confirmed the tragic turn of events. One source told SaharaReporters, “She died last night. She finally succumbed to her injuries. The governor and his family are yet to release an official statement on the passing of Atsi Kefas. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
A close family friend added, “Yes, the younger sister to Taraba State Governor, who was shot recently by bandits while traveling to Abuja, has passed away.”
The police officer who inadvertently shot Atsi is reported to have been attempting to fend off the assailants. However, the confusion of the situation led to the tragic and accidental loss of life.
At the time of writing, Governor Agbu Kefas and his family have not released an official statement on the death of Atsi. The family is likely still processing the shocking loss. The tragic incident has sent waves of sorrow through the people of Taraba State, many of whom are expressing their condolences.
Local residents and political figures have also extended their sympathies to the governor and his family. Governor Kefas, who took office in 2023, has yet to address the situation publicly.
A local source mentioned, “It is a very sad time for the Kefas family. They are beloved in the state, and this loss is deeply felt by everyone.”
The attack on Atsi Kefas and her mother highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by residents of Taraba State. In recent months, bandit attacks have become more frequent in the region, particularly along major roads.
Kente Road, where the incident occurred, has long been considered a hotspot for criminal activity, including kidnappings and robberies. The state’s security forces have been under increasing pressure to protect travelers and residents from the growing threat of armed bandits.
While the police officer’s role in this specific incident was intended to protect the Kefas family, the overall security situation in Taraba remains a pressing concern. Residents and local leaders have repeatedly called for stronger measures to tackle the rising tide of violence in the region.
Many in Taraba have voiced outrage over the incident, pointing to the state’s ongoing battle with insecurity. “How many more lives need to be lost before the government takes serious action?” one resident asked, reflecting the frustration of many who feel the authorities have not done enough to curb the violence.
In addition to the personal tragedy of Atsi’s death, the ambush is a reminder of the broader insecurity affecting northern Nigeria, where bandit groups operate with relative impunity, often targeting government officials, travelers, and civilians alike.
