At least four soldiers have been killed and several others injured following a fresh attack by terrorists on communities in the Lakpma axis of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State.
The deadly attack, which occurred on Thursday in Dnasapa, Iburo, and nearby villages in the Galkogo district, was carried out by a combination of armed groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and local bandits. Eyewitnesses said the terrorists hoisted Boko Haram flags during the assault, raising fresh concerns that the area has become a base for extremist groups.
The soldiers were reportedly on routine patrol from the Galkogo security base when they were ambushed and overwhelmed by the insurgents in a heavy gun battle.
“This is a monumental loss,” said Babangida Wassa Kudodo, a concerned resident. “These officers were our last line of defence. Their deaths are both tragic and unacceptable.”
The attack has triggered renewed anger and calls for urgent government intervention. Community leaders are demanding reinforcements at the Galkogo base, which serves as the main security post for several communities repeatedly targeted by terrorists.
Kudodo condemned the “barbaric” killings and urged the federal and state governments to urgently address the worsening security crisis in the area. “We need more than prayers. We need swift and decisive action to stop this madness,” he said.
Shiroro LGA, particularly the Lakpma axis, has become a hotspot for insurgent attacks in recent years, forcing many residents to flee their homes and abandon their livelihoods. Security experts warn that the merging of Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit groups in the region poses a growing threat that cannot be handled by routine patrols alone.
As of the time of filing this report, the Niger State Government and military authorities had not released official statements on the latest incident.
