24 Killed in Kebbi Easter Attack as Terrorists Burn Homes, Shops – The Bureau News | Nigeria News Today
By Abdullahi Tukur
Birnin Kebbi — The Bureau News reports that no fewer than 24 people have been confirmed dead following a deadly attack by suspected terrorists in Debe community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Monday during the Easter period, has plunged the community into mourning, leaving several residents displaced and properties destroyed.
Nigeria News Today: Death Toll Rises in Kebbi Community Attack
According to a statement signed by Rev. Fr. Matthew Stephen Kabirat, Director of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, the victims cut across religious and social groups, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence.
Those confirmed dead include five members of the Catholic community: Solomon Gyara, Amos Kagbede, John Solomon, Luka Ishaku, and Yahaya Ayuba.
Two other victims from different Christian denominations — Pastor Ibrahim Mokoshi and Hassan Karaya — were also among those killed.
The statement further revealed that several traditional worshippers lost their lives, including Daura Wojjo, Kogoli Dogo Maigoro, Magandalla Gbakutali, Kalema Gbakutali, Yaron Daura, Abanza Bawa, and Jato Karaya.
Additionally, six Muslim victims were identified as Zamani Tanko, Wanzam Bushe, Shekaru Guntu, Sani Maiginan Rijiya, Awwal Shehu Makeri, and Abakar Lenike.
The Bureau News: Homes, Shops Razed
Beyond the loss of lives, the scale of destruction was extensive.
The residence of the catechist, Mr. Zakariya Sule, was also destroyed, alongside several homes belonging to residents including Ishaku Ropia, Jonathan Kungusan, Guntu, Ayuba, Solomon, and Yohanna.
Local businesses were not spared, as at least 14 shops were burnt during the attack, affecting traders such as Ibrahim Jangu, Musa Marafa, Emmanuel Auta, Habu, and Awwal Dandare.
Search Ongoing as Displacement Worsens
Community leaders disclosed that search and recovery efforts are still ongoing, raising fears that the death toll could increase further.
Residents have reportedly been displaced, with many struggling to come to terms with the scale of the devastation.
“The situation remains tense as displaced residents seek safety, while authorities continue rescue and recovery operations,” the statement noted.
Security Forces Deployed to Restore Calm
In a separate statement, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that suspected terrorists attacked Debe, Gebe, Kawara, Kalkami, and surrounding villages, exploiting the wetland terrain.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said security forces, including Police Tactical Units, the military, Marine Police, and local vigilantes, have been deployed to restore normalcy and secure the affected communities.
The police expressed condolences to families of the victims and assured residents of ongoing efforts to ensure safety and prevent further attacks.
The Bureau News gathered that calls are intensifying for urgent government intervention, a thorough investigation, and humanitarian support for affected families.
