Terrorists Issue Fresh Threat After Killing 40, Abducting Scores In Niger
Residents of several communities in Agwara and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State are reportedly fleeing their homes amid fears of renewed attacks after terrorists reportedly issued fresh threats following last Saturday’s massacre that left over 40 people dead.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that over 40 people were killed and several others abducted when terrorists invaded communities in Agwara and Borgu LGAs on Saturday.
Villagers told The Punch that the assailants warned they would continue the killings, triggering panic and displacement across border communities linking Agwara, Borgu and Kebbi State.
The residents alleged that soldiers deployed to the affected areas withdrew shortly after their arrival, leaving communities without a visible security presence.
Villagers from Kwana, the last village in Agwara LGA, and Tungan Salama, near Papiri in Borgu LGA, said they had received credible information that the terrorists were planning to strike again.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, appealed to the Federal and state governments to urgently deploy a strong military presence to the area.
“Without security, there will be a massive and ongoing loss of life and permanent displacement of large numbers of people.
“It is clear that pending the elimination of the terrorists and dismantling of their
hideouts in Kainji Game Reserve, there is an immediate need for a large and well-equipped military task force in the area capable of and empowered to pursue, engage and eliminate these terrorists whenever they come out of the Game Reserve again for further attacks,” he said.
Confirming the situation, the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, Rev. Fr. Matthew Kabirat, said parishioners and priests were relocating due to fear of fresh attacks.
“As I am talking to you, our parishioners and priests are leaving for fear of possible attacks. The security personnel that came after the incident cannot be found, there are no signs of help for the people. These terrorists are having a field day and our people are moving from that axis for fear of either being killed or kidnapped,” he said.
Another resident, Abuka, said the people of Papiri, Kwana and Tungan Salama were living in constant fear.
“Between Sunday, December 28, 2025 and Saturday, January 3, 2026, this group of bandits have been roaming freely without being challenged by security forces.
“As a result, the Papiri school children, who were recently released from captivity, including my daughter, have been further traumatised as they are forced to hide in the bush with their families.
“Nevertheless, people are moving from the area in large numbers, abandoning their homes and properties,” he said.
The Niger State Commissioner for Information, Obed Nana, confirmed the attacks and urged residents to remain calm.
“The terrorists had also invaded some communities on their way through parts of Rijau and Agwara LGAs, killing many innocent people.
“They also attacked a police outpost in Shafacci village and a Catholic Missionary School in Sukumbara village, where they carted away two motorcycles and destroyed some school property, but there were no casualties there.
“The Government of Niger State is deeply saddened by this unfortunate tragedy and is collaborating with the Federal Government and security agencies to forestall further attacks, while calling on the people to remain vigilant,” he said.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
