Amnesty Condemns Killing Of 17 In Sokoto Bandit Attack, Demands Probe

Amnesty International has condemned a bandit attack that killed at least 17 people in the Dangulbi community of Sokoto State, Nigeria, urging authorities to investigate and strengthen protections for vulnerable populations.

The attack occurred on June 1, 2026, targeting residents and visitors who had gathered for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. Hundreds of bandits reportedly rode motorcycles into the community, opening fire and looting shops, forcing residents to flee into nearby forests. Local accounts suggest the gunmen moved through villages in Zamfara State before launching their assault.

“

The Nigerian authorities must urgently investigate this attack, ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice in fair proceedings, and take immediate steps to protect communities that remain at risk. The authorities must also provide effective support and assistance to survivors, displaced persons and families affected by the attack.

"The Nigerian authorities must urgently investigate this attack, ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice in fair proceedings, and take immediate steps to protect communities that remain at risk," Amnesty International stated. The organization also called for effective support for survivors and affected families.

Amnesty International highlighted that the killing and destruction of property underscore the "continuing failure" of authorities to protect rural communities from armed attacks. The repeated incidents have instilled constant fear, disrupted livelihoods, farming, and access to essential services. The fact that some victims were visiting for the Eid celebrations made the attack particularly tragic, as communities should be able to gather without fear of violence.

“

They started shooting as soon as they arrived. People ran in different directions in search of safety, but 17 people lost their lives during the attack.