The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the killing of five worshippers during an attack on a mosque in Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The attack took place around 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday at a mosque in Dadin Kowa community, while Muslim faithful were observing Taraweeh prayers. Taraweeh prayers are special night prayers held during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Bashir Usman, said suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group carried out the attack.
According to him, the gunmen stormed the mosque and opened fire on worshippers, killing five people on the spot. Three others were injured and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Usman described the attack as a reprisal. He said the gunmen fled into the bush before security operatives could reach the scene.
“The Command deeply regrets to confirm the killing of five worshippers at a mosque in Dadin Kowa, Maiyama Local Government Area. The attack occurred at about 8:30 p.m. during Taraweeh prayers. Three other victims are currently receiving medical attention,” the statement said.
He added that police officers, in collaboration with the military and local vigilante groups, were immediately deployed to the area to restore calm and maintain public order.
The police also condoled with the families of the victims and the people of Maiyama over what they described as a tragic and unfortunate incident.
Maiyama Local Government Area is one of the local councils in Kebbi State, located in the northwestern part of Nigeria. Kebbi shares borders with Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger states, as well as the Republic of Niger. In recent years, some parts of the state have faced security challenges linked to armed groups operating in the region.
Residents of Dadin Kowa said the attack caused panic in the community. Many families reportedly fled their homes for safety shortly after the gunshots were heard.
Some residents believe the attack may be connected to recent security operations targeting the hideouts of the Lakurawa group in the area. They also linked it to a recent failed ambush on a military commander’s convoy.
Although details of the alleged ambush were not officially confirmed, locals said tension has been high in the area following increased military activities.
The Lakurawa group has been blamed for several violent incidents in parts of Kebbi State in recent times. Security agencies have stepped up operations to tackle the group and restore peace to affected communities.
The latest mosque attack comes barely a week after suspected Lakurawa fighters allegedly carried out deadly attacks in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State. During those attacks, dozens of residents were reportedly killed.
The Arewa incident shocked many residents of the state and led to calls for stronger security measures to protect rural communities.
Community leaders in Maiyama have urged the government to strengthen security presence in the area. They said worship centres and villages must be protected, especially during Ramadan, when many Muslims gather at mosques at night.
A local resident, who asked not to be named for security reasons, said the attackers came suddenly and started shooting without warning.
“People were praying when we started hearing gunshots. Everyone ran in different directions. It was a terrible scene,” he said.
Another resident said fear has now gripped the community.
“We are afraid to go out at night. Even going to the mosque feels risky. We need more security here,” he said.
Over the past few years, several states in Nigeria’s North-West have faced attacks by armed groups. These groups often target villages, markets, and highways. Many communities have suffered loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
The Federal Government has repeatedly assured citizens that efforts are ongoing to tackle insecurity across the country. Military operations have been intensified in some states, including Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna.
However, rural communities continue to face challenges due to difficult terrain and limited security presence.
Religious leaders in Kebbi State have also called for prayers and unity among residents. They urged people not to take the law into their own hands and to cooperate with security agencies.
As Ramadan continues, many Muslims gather in mosques at night for Taraweeh prayers. The attack in Dadin Kowa has raised concerns about the safety of worshippers during this sacred period.
The Kebbi State Government has yet to release an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report. However, residents are calling on both the state and federal authorities to act swiftly.
Meanwhile, security patrols have reportedly been increased in Maiyama and surrounding communities. Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down the attackers.
The Police Public Relations Officer assured residents that the command is committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
“We are working closely with other security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
For now, families of the victims are mourning their loved ones, while the community struggles to come to terms with the tragedy.
The mosque attack in Maiyama adds to the growing list of violent incidents in parts of Kebbi State. As residents bury the dead and care for the injured, many are hoping that stronger security measures will prevent further bloodshed.
