A fresh wave of violence swept through Katsina State as unknown gunmen killed at least 13 people in a deadly attack that has heightened fears over worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria. The attack occurred on the same day as other violent incidents reported in different parts of the country, underscoring the scale and persistence of armed attacks on rural communities.
The killings were reported in communities within Katsina State, where residents said the assailants arrived on motorcycles and opened fire on villagers before fleeing the area. Local sources indicated that the victims included farmers and residents who were caught off guard during the assault. Several others were reportedly injured, while homes and food supplies were damaged or destroyed.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as residents attempted to escape the gunmen, with many fleeing into nearby bushes for safety. Security forces were deployed to the affected areas after the attackers had already withdrawn, a pattern that has become increasingly common in similar incidents across the state.
Katsina State authorities confirmed the attack and said security agencies had launched a manhunt to track down those responsible. Officials blamed armed criminal groups, commonly referred to as bandits, who have carried out repeated attacks involving killings, kidnappings, and cattle rustling across northwestern Nigeria. No arrests had been announced at the time of reporting.
The incident has renewed concerns among residents over the effectiveness of security measures in rural areas, where communities remain vulnerable to sudden attacks. Community leaders called on the federal and state governments to strengthen security patrols and improve intelligence gathering to prevent further loss of life.
The Katsina killings come amid a broader surge in violence across several Nigerian states, with recent attacks reported in parts of the North Central and North West regions. Analysts warn that the continued spread of armed groups poses a serious threat to national stability, food security, and public confidence in state protection.
As families mourn the victims, residents of the affected communities say fear now dominates daily life, with many unsure when or where the next attack might occur. The latest incident adds to mounting pressure on authorities to deliver lasting solutions to Nigeria’s deepening security crisis.
