Nigerian Army convoy ambushed; troops neutralize attackers as terrorists target evening prayers
At least five worshippers were killed and three others injured when suspected Lakurawa terrorists stormed a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area, Kebbi State, in what authorities say was a reprisal following a failed ambush on a Nigerian Army General Officer Commanding (GOC).
The attack occurred Wednesday evening while congregants were attending prayers, according to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria.
Terrorist Retaliation After Ambush Foiled
Kebbi Command Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed that the mosque assault was carried out in retaliation for an earlier failed attack on the convoy of Maj.-Gen. Bemgha Koughna, GOC of the 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
“The attack was a reprisal by suspected Lakurawa terrorist elements following a failed ambush on troops of the Nigerian Army attached to the 8 Division,” Usman said.
On February 24, the GOC’s convoy came under heavy gunfire while navigating forested terrain near Mayama Hill. Soldiers responded with superior firepower, engaging the terrorists in a fierce gunfight that resulted in the neutralization of five attackers, effectively foiling the ambush.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Following the reprisal at Dadinkowa Mosque, police confirmed that five worshippers were killed from gunshot wounds. Three others sustained injuries of varying degrees and were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Authorities are intensifying security patrols in Maiyama and surrounding areas, while investigations continue to track and apprehend any surviving terrorist elements.
“The safety of residents and religious centres remains a priority,” SP Usman said, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Kebbi State, particularly the threat posed by Lakurawa extremists targeting both military and civilian locations.
