Communities in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have condemned the recent attack on Damakasuwa community, Chawai Chiefdom, which left seven people dead and one person injured.
The Kauru Local Government Community Development Associations (CDAs) Forum described the incident as “a disturbing reminder of the insecurity that has continued to torment the area.”
In a statement jointly signed by the Forum’s chairman, Dr. Billy Ishaya Laah, and spokesman, Daniel Danau, the group said the attack, which took place last Friday night, has once again exposed the vulnerability of communities in southern Kaduna despite the presence of security personnel.
“The attack, which resulted in the death of seven people and injury to one, is a disturbing reminder of the insecurity that has plagued our communities,” the statement read.
The forum expressed disappointment that the killings happened even with the presence of the military and Mobile Police (MOPOL) units in the area, saying the incident raises serious questions about the effectiveness of ongoing security operations.
“It is worrisome that such an incident could occur under the watch of security agencies. This calls for a more robust and coordinated response to protect lives and property,” the forum said.
The community leaders lamented that the tragedy had thrown the entire Kauru area into mourning, causing widespread fear and panic among residents. They, however, urged people to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
“We appeal to our people to remain calm and continue to support security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this evil act are arrested and prosecuted,” the statement added.
The forum reaffirmed that the people of Kauru are known for their peaceful coexistence and communal harmony, saying the ongoing attacks threaten to destroy the social fabric that binds the communities together.
“The people of Kauru Local Government Area are known for living peacefully with one another. It is disheartening to see our communities being torn apart by senseless acts of violence,” they stated.
They called on the Kaduna State Government to intensify patrols, increase surveillance, and ensure that no further attacks occur in the region.
“We urge the Kaduna State Government and all security operatives to strengthen their presence in vulnerable areas to prevent further loss of lives,” the statement read.
The forum also appealed to both state and federal authorities to tackle the root causes of insecurity in southern Kaduna, noting that poverty, unemployment, and poor access to basic amenities often create conditions for violence.
“We call on the government to take concrete steps to address poverty, joblessness, and lack of social infrastructure. These issues fuel tension and insecurity in our communities,” the leaders added.
Residents say the attack on Damakasuwa follows a pattern of recurring violence in parts of southern Kaduna, where communities have repeatedly come under assault by armed groups in recent years.
Many locals have fled their homes out of fear of renewed attacks, while security operatives have reportedly been deployed to restore calm in the affected area.
As investigations continue, the Kauru CDA Forum urged both the government and humanitarian agencies to support victims’ families and help rebuild confidence among displaced residents.
“We are united in grief but determined not to lose hope. The people of Kauru will continue to seek peace, justice, and lasting security,” the statement concluded.
