Katsina State Government has condemned the bandits who attacked and killed 28 worshippers during morning prayers in a mosque in Malumfashi Local Government, labeling them as “cowards.”
Acting Governor Alhaji Faruq Lawal-Jobe made the statement on Saturday in Katsina, calling the incident “sad and most unfortunate,” according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The remarks came during the inauguration of eight new Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) acquired by the state to enhance its fight against banditry. Lawal-Jobe noted that the attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, August 18, when suspected bandits targeted worshippers at Unguwan Mantau during their prayers.
“Instead of confronting the people, they decided to attack them very early in the morning when they were performing their obligatory duties,” he said, emphasizing the bandits’ cowardly tactics.
The acting governor highlighted the state’s significant investment in security, stating, “We have invested so much in terms of security assets.”
He added that four of the eight frontline local governments—Jibia, Batsari, Kankara, and Danmusa—have been secured, but the fight continues. “The battle is not over until it is won,” Lawal-Jobe declared, vowing that the government would not be deterred by the bandits’ actions.
Lawal-Jobe also praised the resilience of the local community, noting, “The bandits made several attempts to enter the village, and they made resistance.”
He reported that 76 kidnapped victims were freed early that morning, in addition to others who escaped during the bandits’ retreat. The state has sought federal support, with Lawal-Jobe revealing, “Yesterday, our senators and the members of the House of Representatives met with the leadership of the security forces.” The Chief of Army Staff is also scheduled to visit for an assessment, with the state ready to provide further information on required support.
The state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, disclosed that Katsina has invested approximately N36 billion in security measures, boasting one of the highest numbers of security assets in the region, including 43 APCs.
“Security is a community-driven effort,” Mu’azu stressed, urging public participation and emphasizing transparency in security investments. “Our doors are open for anyone willing to assist,” he added. (NAN)
