A deadly ambush by armed gunmen in Kebbi State has left several security operatives, including soldiers and a policeman, dead, in an attack that has further raised concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where security personnel were reportedly on an operation following a tip off from residents before they were attacked by gunmen.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, believed to have been active in the area, were tracked to a construction company yard. Soldiers were subsequently deployed to secure the location but were ambushed before reaching their destination. The attack was described as sudden and intense, with reports indicating casualties among military personnel and civilians.
In the aftermath of the assault, two military trucks were reportedly set ablaze, while residents described the situation as chaotic and frightening, leaving the community shaken. As of the time of reporting, military authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the attack while speaking to journalists after visiting victims at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi, where the injured were receiving treatment. He described the incident as deeply troubling and condemned the violence.
“This is a sad incident. These are the soldiers who protect the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation. The Kebbi State Government will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives of its citizens,” he said.
The governor assured that the state government would take responsibility for the medical treatment of those injured and provide support to families of the deceased security personnel. He also offered prayers for the victims and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security across the state.
Following his hospital visit, Idris proceeded to the scene of the attack for an on the spot assessment.
The incident adds to a growing list of violent attacks targeting security forces across northern Nigeria. In recent times, clashes involving armed groups have resulted in casualties among troops in several states, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
In June 2025, the Nigerian Army confirmed the death of 17 soldiers during a gun battle with suspected bandits in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State. Similarly, in the North-East, insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province have continued to carry out attacks on military formations, leading to further loss of lives.
Ademide Adebayo
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