Terrorists kill 20 in Kebbi attack; Emir had urged armed self-defense

At least 20 people were killed in a brutal attack by suspected Lakurawa insurgents on Fasken Rafi village in the Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria. Residents described the Sunday assault as one of the deadliest and most coordinated attacks to hit the region recently. Scores of villagers sustained severe injuries and are receiving medical attention.

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This senseless loss of lives deeply saddens us. This administration remains unyielding in its commitment to restoring peace. We are immediately deploying additional security personnel and critical operational resources to this axis to guarantee the safety of lives and property and prevent any recurrence.

In response, the state government dispatched a high-powered delegation, led by Deputy Governor Umar Tafida, to the affected village. Mr. Tafida assessed the security situation and offered condolences to the grieving families. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating banditry and violent extremism, announcing the immediate deployment of additional security personnel and resources to the area to prevent future attacks and ensure safety.

This latest violence occurred just days after the Emir of Argungu, Mohammed Mera, advised residents within his emirate to obtain legal permits for firearms to defend their communities. The Emir made this call during a meeting where he urged local communities to remain vigilant and take proactive measures against terrorists and criminals. He suggested that communities could pool resources to purchase legally approved weapons for self-defense, stating that a visible means of defense could deter attackers.

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If you acquire such weapons legally, make sure the attackers are aware that your community possesses the means to defend itself. This alone can serve as a warning and discourage the invaders from attacking.

The Emir emphasized that Islam encourages self-defense and condemns cowardice, particularly when facing attacks, kidnappings, and assaults on women and children. He clarified that his call was strictly for lawful self-defense, not vigilantism or terrorism, acknowledging the overwhelming scale of the security challenges faced by formal security forces.

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It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens, and assault women and children. Be prepared to defend yourselves, your families, and your communities against any attack.