A wedding day in Sokoto State turned into tragedy after armed bandits abducted at least 30 women and girls, including a bride and her bridesmaids, during a late-night raid on Chacho community in Wurno Local Government Area. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, also left one resident injured.
Details of the incident were shared by security analyst Bakatsine, who reported on X that the assailants stormed the village under the cover of darkness and herded away the victims shortly before the bride was expected to tie the knot. He described the raid as a devastating blow to families preparing for a day of celebration.
According to his account, the bandits operated swiftly, invading the community and targeting households where women and girls were gathered ahead of the planned ceremony. The bride and her attendants were among those seized during the assault.
Bakatsine wrote that “a day meant for joy and celebration was shattered,” questioning how much more suffering residents must endure before security improves in rural communities across the region. His post quickly drew widespread attention, reigniting concerns over persistent kidnappings in Sokoto and neighbouring states.
The attack adds to a series of abductions carried out by armed groups operating in the North-West, where rural communities remain vulnerable to raids despite security deployments. Many families in affected areas continue to live in fear as kidnappers increasingly target women and children.
Local sources say the community has been left traumatised, with residents awaiting updates on the fate of the abducted women. Families of the victims have reportedly been gathering in groups, hoping for swift intervention from authorities.
As of the time of reporting, state officials and security agencies have not issued an official statement on the incident, leaving many unanswered questions about rescue efforts and the condition of the kidnapped victims.
