By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

In a devastating escalation of violence in Nigeria’s North-Central region, no fewer than 20 soldiers were reportedly killed in the early hours of Tuesday following a brutal attack by heavily armed bandits on a military camp near Bangi, in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

The assailants, numbering dozens, launched a surprise attack on the Konan Dutse military base shortly before dawn on June 24, 2025, engaging troops in a fierce gun battle that lasted several hours.

Confirming the incident in a phone interview, Chairman of Mariga Local Government, Hon. Abbas Kasuwar Garba, said the attackers infiltrated the area via Dogon Dawa and stormed the military post, killing at least 17 soldiers and leaving three others critically wounded.

“I don’t know if the three who were evacuated to the hospital have survived, but I will find out and get back to you,” the chairman said.

According to him, the lack of mobile network coverage delayed communication and timely alerts that could have helped avert the attack.

“Konan Dutse is a few kilometres from Bena in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, close to the same axis where bandits launched deadly attacks last week,” he added.

The attackers reportedly proceeded to Gulbin Bola village, where another assault was launched. However, no casualties were reported in that incident. Meanwhile, residents from several communities—including Gulbin Boka, Warari, Zagada, Idaci, Jama’are, and Kawo—have fled to Rijau for safety.

“Air Force jets are currently carrying out operations in the area with the aim of neutralizing the bandits,” the chairman disclosed, adding that the Army Commanding Officer in Kontagora had deployed reinforcements to the troubled zone.

An official of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), who spoke on condition of anonymity, also confirmed the attack and the fatalities.

“We received reports that 20 soldiers stationed at Konan Dutse were killed by bandits. The attack has caused a wave of displacement across several communities, including Zagada, Gulbin Boka, Kawo, Warari, Jama’are, and Idaci,” the official said.

The latest assault adds to the growing insecurity plaguing the North-West and North-Central regions, raising urgent concerns about the safety of both civilians and security personnel on the frontlines.