The Chief of Staff to the Zamfara State Government House, Moukhtar Lugga, narrowly escaped death on Thursday evening after gunmen attacked his convoy along the busy Funtua–Gusau road.
The incident, which has raised fresh concerns about security in Zamfara State, reportedly occurred around 6:16 pm near Kucheri, a location known for security challenges in recent years.
According to reports from a local radio station, the attackers ambushed Lugga’s vehicle and opened fire from different directions in what appeared to be a well-planned assault. Witness accounts suggest the gunmen surrounded the vehicle before shooting, creating a tense and dangerous situation.
Despite the intensity of the attack, Lugga and his driver escaped without injuries. Sources said the driver acted quickly and managed to steer the vehicle away from the scene, avoiding what could have been a fatal outcome.
After the incident, a bullet hole was reportedly seen on the front windscreen of the vehicle, indicating how close the attackers came to causing serious harm.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement regarding the attack. Efforts to reach authorities for confirmation and further details were ongoing.
The Funtua–Gusau road, which links parts of Zamfara with neighbouring Katsina State, has long been considered a high-risk route due to frequent attacks by armed groups. Travellers and residents have often reported cases of ambush, kidnapping, and robbery along the road.
Zamfara State is one of several states in Nigeria’s North-West region that have been heavily affected by banditry in recent years. Armed groups, commonly referred to as bandits, have carried out attacks on communities, highways, and even government officials.
These groups are known for kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and violent raids on villages. The situation has forced many residents to flee their homes, while others live in fear of further attacks.
The attack on a high-ranking government official like the Chief of Staff highlights the growing boldness of these armed groups. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures in the state.
In recent years, both federal and state governments have taken steps to address insecurity in Zamfara and other affected areas. These measures include military operations, deployment of security personnel, and peace agreements with some armed groups.
However, despite these efforts, attacks have continued, often targeting both civilians and government officials.
The role of a Chief of Staff in a state government is critical, as the office serves as a key link between the governor and other parts of the administration. An attack on such an official is therefore seen as a serious security concern.
Residents of the area where the attack occurred have also expressed worry about their safety. Some have called on the government to increase security patrols along major roads, especially those known for frequent attacks.
Transport operators who use the Funtua–Gusau road regularly say they often travel in groups or avoid certain times of the day to reduce the risk of нападения. Many have also urged authorities to improve intelligence gathering and response times.
The latest incident adds to a growing list of attacks in the region, reinforcing the need for stronger security measures. Experts have suggested better coordination among security agencies, increased surveillance, and community involvement in reporting suspicious activities.
There are also calls for long-term solutions to address the root causes of banditry, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. Some believe that without addressing these issues, the cycle of violence may continue.
For now, the safe escape of Moukhtar Lugga and his driver is being seen as a fortunate outcome in what could have been a tragic event. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by both public officials and ordinary citizens in parts of the country.
As Nigerians await an official response from security agencies, many hope that the attack will prompt renewed efforts to tackle insecurity in Zamfara and beyond.