By Our Correspondent
National News – Gunmen killed 10 security personnel — nine soldiers and one police officer — during a deadly ambush on Tuesday night in Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The attack, which also left several civilians dead or injured, occurred when armed assailants targeted troops on security patrol, destroying two military gun trucks and sparking renewed concerns about worsening insecurity in the region.
The Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, confirmed the incident on Wednesday while visiting victims receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi.
According to the governor, the slain officers were attacked while carrying out their duty to protect residents in the troubled community.
Describing the assault as “barbaric and unacceptable,” Idris expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the security personnel, noting that they died while defending the state and the nation.
He also assured residents that the government would support the families of the fallen officers and provide medical care for the injured.
“This is a deeply painful and unfortunate incident.
These brave soldiers and the police officer were on duty defending our people when they lost their lives,” the governor said.
Idris further pledged that the state government would cover all hospital expenses for the injured victims and ensure the families of the deceased officers receive adequate support.
Following his hospital visit, the governor travelled to Giro Masa community for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation as security forces intensified operations to track down the attackers.
Security analysts say the attack highlights the persistent threat of banditry and cross-border crime in parts of Kebbi State.
The region’s proximity to the Niger Republic and its largely rural terrain have reportedly made it vulnerable to armed groups moving across porous borders.
In recent months, Shanga and neighbouring local government areas have recorded sporadic attacks linked to bandit groups targeting both civilians and security formations.
Residents are now calling for a stronger and sustained military presence, improved intelligence gathering, and tighter border security to prevent future attacks.
The latest ambush is considered one of the deadliest attacks on security personnel in the state in recent times, raising fresh fears over the evolving tactics of armed groups in northern Nigeria.
