A wave of fear has engulfed the Tofah community in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State following a reportedly violent night-time attack by armed bandits, leaving several residents dead and many others kidnapped. The attack has intensified concerns over the growing insecurity in northern Nigeria and the vulnerability of rural communities to violent criminal groups.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident took place late on Tuesday, shortly after the community experienced a sudden network shutdown. Residents reported that the attackers arrived in large numbers, systematically moving from house to house while continuously firing their weapons, creating panic and chaos throughout the village.
Residents Flee at Dawn
Local security commentator, Bakatsine, corroborated the reports on X, providing details of the horrifying attack and the immediate aftermath. Many residents were forced to abandon their homes and belongings in the early hours of the morning as the threat of further violence loomed over the community.
He wrote: “SAD NEWS: Yesterday night, armed bandits attacked Tofah community in Rabah LGA of Sokoto State. The incident occurred shortly after a network shutdown and the attackers fired repeatedly as they moved through the village.
“Several residents were killed, others were injured and some were taken away. Because of the fear and uncertainty that followed, many people fled the community early this morning.
“For how long will residents continue to run for safety, and when will authorities bring an end to this suffering?”
The panic-stricken residents reportedly spent the night hiding in nearby forests and farmlands, uncertain about the fate of their neighbors and relatives who were targeted by the attackers. The psychological trauma of the attack has left the community on edge, with many expressing deep concerns over the lack of timely security intervention.
No Official Response Yet
As of now, security agencies and government authorities have not issued an official statement on the attack, leaving the exact number of casualties and the identities of the kidnapped residents unknown. The delay in response has further fueled anxiety among locals and observers who fear similar incidents may occur in nearby communities.
The attack came only hours after the Federal Government announced the successful rescue of schoolgirls abducted weeks ago in Kebbi State, highlighting ongoing security challenges and raising questions about the effectiveness of protective measures in northern communities. Residents and human rights advocates have called for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of life and restore a sense of safety in the area.
Community leaders have reportedly begun organizing support for the affected families, including temporary shelters, food, and medical assistance for the injured, while awaiting an official response from law enforcement agencies. The incident has reignited national discussions about banditry, rural vulnerability, and the urgent need for coordinated security strategies across the region.