AU Condemns Zamfara Killings, Demands Release Of Abducted Women, Children
The African Union has condemned the killing of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children during coordinated attacks in Zamfara State, declaring its solidarity with Nigeria and calling for the immediate release of those abducted.
In a statement published on its official website on Sunday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said he “strongly condemns the heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks perpetrated on February 21, 2026, in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria,” which “resulted in the killing of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children.”
The union said it “unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations, particularly women and children,” describing them as “grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security, and stability.”
Youssouf expressed the AU’s “full solidarity with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” conveyed “heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
He also reaffirmed the AU’s “unwavering support for Nigeria’s efforts to address insecurity and restore lasting peace.”
The Chairperson further called for the “immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children,” and urged “strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilian populations and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities,” in line with the AU’s commitment to peace, security and stability on the continent.
Zamfara State was reportedly attacked last Thursday night by bandits, who killed no fewer than 50 residents of Dutsin Dan Ajiya village in Anka Local Government Area.
Corpses of the victims were wrapped in white for a mass burial, according to a video seen on Saturday.
A resident said the attackers stormed the village with sophisticated weapons and blocked all access roads linking the community to prevent escape.
“After blocking all the roads, the bandits started to shoot at sight, and the villagers ran helter-skelter,” he said.
He added, “After the attack, we realised that 30 people were killed; some were wounded, while several others are at large and nobody knows their whereabouts.”
It was gathered that the raid lasted until the early hours of Friday, with many residents abducted during the attack.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
