Armed bandits have killed five soldiers and 10 villagers in an ambush along the Lilo–Gulubba Road, under Mada District of Gusau Local Government Area, Zamfara State.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, targeted a convoy of traders being escorted to Gusau market by troops.
At a press briefing on Wednesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Gusau, leaders of Lilo community described the attack as shocking and devastating.
Mohammed Mohammed, spokesperson for the community, said the bandits opened fire on the convoy, killing 10 villagers, all traders, in addition to the soldiers.
“The incident happened when troops were escorting our traders to Gusau market and a large group of bandits suddenly ambushed them,” he said.
An eyewitness, who narrowly escaped, recalled how the gunmen emerged from hiding and opened fire without warning.
“I ran into the bush and laid on the ground pretending to be dead. The soldiers fought back bravely, killing many of the bandits, but sadly five soldiers and 10 villagers also lost their lives. Some passengers were injured, but many managed to escape unhurt,” he recounted.
Residents lamented that the poor condition of roads in the area has made communities more vulnerable to attacks. They appealed to local, state, and federal authorities to improve infrastructure, provide healthcare and schools, and bolster security.
“We need urgent government intervention in the areas of education, health, roads, and most importantly, adequate security,” the community leaders said.
When contacted, the Army’s Media Information Officer, Captain David Adewusi, said he was not yet aware of the incident but promised to verify and respond.
