Gunmen Kill Dozens, Rustle Cattle in Midnight Raid on Kebbi Villages

Suspected Lakurawa militants have killed at least 35 residents in coordinated overnight attacks on seven communities in Kebbi State, according to authorities and local sources.

Police spokesperson Bashir Usman said the assailants struck villages in the Bui area around 12:15 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. He disclosed that security forces, including police, soldiers, and local vigilantes, were swiftly deployed following the incident.

Usman explained that casualties mounted as residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago attempted to repel the attackers during the raids. He added that the gunmen also stole livestock before fleeing.

A villager who spoke to AFP said gunfire erupted suddenly, forcing people to run for shelter. According to the resident, several victims were struck while trying to escape.

The attack occurred just days after the state hosted its annual Argungu fishing festival, roughly 60 kilometres from the affected communities.

Local sources say the Lakurawa group has been linked to repeated assaults on settlements in northern parts of Kebbi and neighbouring Sokoto State, raising fresh concerns about security in the region.