At least 47 people were killed on Tuesday as armed bandits launched coordinated attacks across Nigeria’s Katsina, Kwara, and Benue states.
The assaults underscored the deepening security crisis, with rural communities again absorbing the harshest blows of persistent violence.
In Katsina State, gunmen killed at least 20 residents after storming Doma community in Tafoki Ward, Faskari Local Government Area.
Witnesses said the attackers roamed freely, shooting villagers, torching homes and vehicles, and retreating without resistance.
Faskari council chairman Surajo Aliyu described the raid as a deadly reprisal, calling it the area’s worst attack in five months.
In Kwara State, at least 10 villagers were killed in Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
Residents said the attackers emerged from forests linked to Borgu National Park, firing indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze at dusk.
A community leader confirmed multiple deaths, while the state government condemned the killings as a desperate reaction to counterterrorism pressure.
In Benue State, gunmen killed 17 people, including a Mobile Police officer, during an attack on Abande market in Kwande Local Government Area.
Police said the assailants opened fire on traders and residents, killing several people instantly and scattering survivors.
The violence coincided with a US announcement of deploying a small troop team to Nigeria amid renewed security cooperation.
As investigations continue, shattered communities mourn their dead, flee their homes, and brace anxiously for further attacks.
