My dogs saved me from bandits' attack, says Kaduna journalist
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A journalist in Kaduna State, Nigeria, narrowly escaped a bandit attack thanks to his two dogs.
- The journalist was assaulted with a knife and stone after disembarking from a motorcycle taxi near his home.
- His dogs intervened when he shouted for help, biting one attacker and causing the bandits to flee, allowing him to receive medical attention.
James Ogbu, a 40-year-old journalist for Radio Nigeria in Kaduna State, recounted a harrowing experience where he was attacked by bandits near his home on the evening of May 13, 2026. He had finished work and was heading home when he noticed a suspicious motorcycle rider. Opting to walk the remaining distance, he was ambushed by two individuals on a motorcycle. One attacker struck him on the head with a knife, while the other used a large stone to assault his face, nose, and eyes.
It was the dogs that saved me; neighbours could not come out to save me. The hoodlums wanted to assassinate me.
Despite his shouts for help, neighbors were initially hesitant to intervene. However, Ogbu's two dogs heard the commotion and rushed out, barking and biting one of the assailants. This intervention prompted the bandits to flee, leaving Ogbu bleeding heavily. He was subsequently rushed to a private clinic where he is currently receiving treatment.
I was bleeding heavily. People later came out and rushed me to the hospital.
Ogbu expressed gratitude to his dogs for saving his life, noting that neighbors only emerged after the attackers had gone. He speculated that the bandits intended to assassinate him. He also reflected on the incident, stating that while neighbors could have done more, he believes in divine design and is thankful to be alive despite the severe injuries sustained.
I thank God I didnโt die.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.