By Our Correspondent

National News – At least 24 people have been killed in a brutal attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area, as confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora.

The incident occurred on Sunday, April 5, 2026, when suspected terrorists stormed the community around 5pm, unleashing hours of violence.

According to the Diocese, the victims included Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the assault.

The attack, which also affected nearby communities such as Gebe, Kawara, and Kalkami, reportedly originated from armed groups believed to have emerged from the Wawa Forest.

Residents said homes, shops, and key structures were razed, including St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a mosque, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

Security agencies, including the police, military, and local vigilantes, have since been deployed across Kebbi State to restore order.

However, the Diocese disputed earlier police figures, insisting the death toll stands at 24, not four.

The violence also spread to neighbouring settlements like Binuwa and Kalkame, where markets and even the emir’s residence were affected.

In the aftermath, about 491 displaced persons have taken refuge at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri.

These victims urgently need food, clean water, medical care, and shelter, as humanitarian resources are already overstretched.

The Diocese has called on Bola Tinubu and Governor Mohammed Idris to take decisive action to curb insecurity and enable displaced residents to return home safely.

It also appealed to international organisations for immediate intervention to prevent further humanitarian crisis.

Why the attack occurred remains unclear, but recurring violence in border communities between Kebbi and Niger states has raised serious security concerns.

How authorities respond in the coming days will be crucial in restoring peace and rebuilding trust among affected communities.