The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that at least eight people were killed after gunmen attacked three villages in Shanga Local Government Area of the state. The affected communities are Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe. The attacks happened suddenly and without warning, leaving residents in fear and forcing many to run for safety.
According to the police, the attackers struck the villages almost at the same time, causing confusion and panic among residents. Many people fled their homes and ran into nearby bushes or moved to neighbouring communities to escape the violence. Others remained in hiding as fear spread across the area.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Kebbi State, SP Bashir Usman, said seven people lost their lives during the attacks. He added that another victim later died while receiving treatment in a health facility, bringing the total number of deaths to eight. He also said one person who was injured is still receiving medical care and is responding to treatment.
SP Usman explained that security agencies have begun joint operations in the affected areas. He said patrols have been increased, and surveillance has been stepped up to prevent more attacks and to arrest those behind the violence.
“Security agencies have sustained coordinated operations within the affected areas, while intensified patrols and surveillance are ongoing to forestall further breaches,” Usman said. He noted that more details could not be shared at the moment because the operation is still ongoing.
Residents of Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe described the attacks as shocking and devastating. Many said their communities had enjoyed relative peace for many years and had not seen such violence in a long time. The sudden nature of the attacks, they said, made the situation even more frightening.
A resident of the area, who asked not to be named for security reasons, said the entire community is still in shock. “People are afraid to return home. Some families are sleeping in nearby villages or in the bush. Nobody knows what might happen next,” the resident said.
Shanga Local Government Area is one of the rural parts of Kebbi State, where farming and small trading are the main sources of livelihood. Most residents depend on agriculture, and the area is known for its close-knit communities. Attacks of this nature disrupt daily life, especially during farming seasons, as people are unable to tend to their farms or go about their normal activities.
In recent years, parts of north-west Nigeria, including Kebbi State, have faced security challenges linked to armed groups and criminal gangs. These groups often attack villages, kidnap residents for ransom, or steal livestock. While Kebbi has not been as badly affected as some neighbouring states, there have been growing concerns about the spread of violence into previously peaceful areas.
Following the latest attacks, security operatives were quickly deployed to the affected villages. Police and other security agencies are now maintaining a visible presence in Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe. Their aim is to reassure residents, restore calm and prevent further violence.
The Kebbi State Government has not yet issued a detailed statement on the incident, but residents are calling on the authorities to act swiftly. Community leaders have appealed to the state government to strengthen security in Shanga and surrounding areas. They want more security personnel, regular patrols and better intelligence gathering to stop future attacks.
Some residents also called for closer cooperation between security agencies and local communities. They said information from locals can help security forces track down criminals and prevent attacks before they happen. Traditional leaders in the area are said to be holding meetings with security officials to discuss ways to improve safety.
The attacks have also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in the affected villages. With many people displaced, there is a need for food, shelter and medical care. Families who fled their homes left behind their belongings, farms and animals. Some are now relying on relatives and friends in nearby communities for support.
Health workers in the area are also on alert. The injured victim who is still receiving treatment is being closely monitored. Medical officials say more support may be needed if displaced residents begin to return with health challenges linked to stress, injuries or lack of access to clean water and food.
Civil society groups have urged the government to look beyond immediate security responses. They say long-term solutions are needed to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty, unemployment and lack of education. According to them, young people in rural areas need more opportunities to prevent them from being drawn into crime.
For now, fear remains high in Shanga Local Government Area. Many residents say they will only return to their homes when they are sure it is safe. Parents are worried about their children, and farmers are anxious about their crops and livestock.
As the manhunt continues, security agencies say they are determined to bring the attackers to justice. They have urged residents to remain calm and to report any suspicious movement to the nearest security post. The police also warned against spreading rumours that could increase fear and tension.