Four Killed, Several Injured in Coordinated Attack on Niger State Villages

Armed assailants launched coordinated attacks on several communities in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on Tuesday morning, leaving at least four people dead and others injured, according to local sources and officials.

The affected communities—Lanta, Tunga, and Bagna—came under attack around 10:30 a.m. The violence reportedly began in Bagna before spreading to neighbouring settlements.

Residents said the attackers arrived in large numbers on motorcycles and operated for hours without resistance. Several homes were reportedly deserted as people fled toward Erena, described by locals as the nearest relatively secure settlement.

A resident of Bagna told reporters that three bodies had been recovered at the time of reporting, while search efforts were still ongoing. Multiple injured victims were also taken to nearby locations for treatment. The overall casualty figure has not been fully established due to continued tension in the area.

“We have recovered three bodies so far. Many others are injured. Most residents have moved to Erena town for safety,” the source said.

The Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barrister Maurice Bello Magaji, confirmed the incident, stating that security agencies had been alerted and response efforts were underway.

“Yes, the state has received credible information and is working with security forces,” he said.

The affected area remains unstable as displaced residents await further security deployment and assessment of damage.