In a tragic turn of events, a bride and four bridesmaids were abducted by suspected terrorists during a wedding ceremony in Sokoto State.
The incident occurred on Saturday at Kwaren Gamba, near Kuka Teke, a village in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
This community has suffered repeated attacks from armed groups linked to notorious bandits’ leader Bello Turji.
Eyewitnesses recounted how the gunmen stormed the area, forcing the victims into their vehicles amidst widespread panic.
“The gunshots were deafening, and everyone ran for safety,” one witness explained.
Residents, many of whom were helpless, watched in despair as the terrorists disappeared into the surrounding bush.
Families of the abductees have been left shattered, unable to comprehend the horrors that unfolded on what was supposed to be a day of joy.
Zagazola Makama, a security expert familiar with the region, described the community as being in a state of complete shock.
A local elder, speaking anonymously, expressed deep frustration over the relentless insecurity plaguing the area.
“The situation is unbearable, and our people are losing hope,” he lamented.
Region Gripped by Violence
Saturday’s abduction is just the latest in a string of violent incidents terrorizing Sokoto State.
Earlier in the week, 10 people were killed in another attack in the same local government area.
The assailants targeted members of a local vigilante group in Dantudu Lajinge village.
According to survivors, the terrorists executed nine vigilantes by slitting their throats.
“They slaughtered them like rams,” said Bello Dan-Tudu, a resident of the village, as he described the gruesome killings.
The wives of the slain vigilantes were also abducted, leaving the community in mourning.
Another resident provided a chilling account, saying some of the victims were shot at close range.
“One person miraculously survived despite being shot in the neck. He’s now receiving treatment at a hospital,” the resident disclosed.
Government’s Slow Response
The Chairman of Sabon Birni Local Government Council, Ayuba Hamisu, confirmed the attacks and the fatalities.
“Our community is under siege, and the situation demands urgent intervention,” he stated.
Local authorities have faced criticism for failing to curb the escalating violence.
Despite numerous calls for action, many communities in Sokoto State remain vulnerable to bandit attacks.
Bandit Leader’s Reign of Terror
The name Bello Turji strikes fear across much of northern Nigeria.
Turji’s armed gang has been linked to countless kidnappings, massacres, and extortion in the region.
Security agencies have intensified operations to dismantle his network, but results remain limited.
Residents say the government’s inability to contain Turji’s influence has emboldened his followers.
“They come, they kill, they take what they want, and they leave without resistance,” a frustrated local stated.
A Community’s Despair
The people of Kwaren Gamba and surrounding villages are desperate for peace.
Many have been forced to flee their homes, abandoning farms and livelihoods.
“We cannot continue to live like this,” a villager said in tears.
The abducted bride’s family has appealed to authorities to ensure her safe return, along with the bridesmaids.
“No one deserves this kind of trauma,” a family member said.
As Sokoto State grapples with growing insecurity, the cries for help from its people remain loud and urgent.
