Barely days after over 40 people were killed in Niger State, terrorists have launched coordinated attacks in Kwara, Katsina, and Kaduna, abducting several victims, including a veteran photojournalist. In Kwara, seven members of the traditional ruler of Adanla community’s family were kidnapped following a failed attempt to abduct Oba David Oyerinola and his wife in Ifelodun Local Government Area. The kidnappers are demanding N300 million ransom, prompting calls for government intervention to rescue the victims.
Eyewitnesses reported that armed assailants stormed the Oba’s palace while searching for him and his family, abducting those present outside the palace. One young girl who attempted to flee was shot and is receiving medical treatment. The Adanla community remains largely deserted as residents fled in fear, with security agencies yet to secure the area fully.
In Katsina State, heavily armed terrorists invaded multiple communities in Malumfashi Local Government Area, including Unguwar Barau, Gidan Dan Mai-gizo, and Gidan Hazo. While exact casualty figures remain unconfirmed, residents reported prolonged attacks and abductions. Security officials have yet to release a full statement, though the attacks follow a recent history of violence in the area, including a deadly mosque attack in August 2025 that killed at least 32 people.
Kaduna also witnessed violence when a veteran photojournalist, Malam Umar Usman Iyale, was abducted from his residence in Danhonu 11, Chikun Local Government Area. Iyale, a retired staff of AIT and NTA, was taken after assailants found he could not pay a ransom. His abduction has raised concerns due to his age and health, and Kaduna State police confirmed deployment of operatives to ensure his safe recovery.
Meanwhile, in Niger State, villagers in Ganaru, Mashegu Local Government Area, discovered three roadside improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which could have caused significant casualties. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, assured that the Nigerian Army is committed to deploying more troops and using technology to eradicate terrorist threats across the country, following directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore security in affected regions.
