Corps member among worshippers killed in Kebbi mosque attack

A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) identified as Abubakar Sadiq, was among worshippers k!lled when suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State. 

The alumnus of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, was serving in Dadinkowa at the time of the attack. 

Residents said the attackers surrounded the mosque during a nighttime Qur’anic Tafsir session, and opened fire on the congregation.

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, Bashir Usman, who confirmed the incident in a statement, said the attack occurred around 8:30 p.m on Wednesday.

According to Mr Usman, the attack was a reprisal by the terrorists during which five worshippers were killed and three others injured during the Taraweeh prayers.

He said the survivors are currently hospitalised.

The assailants fled into the bush before the arrival of security operatives. 

While the Command Commiserates with the families and people of Maiyama, the police, in collaboration with the Military and local vigilante groups, were immediately deployed to the area to restore calm and maintain public order, the police spokesperson said.

Residents suspect the terrorists retaliated against assaults by security forces on their hideouts and the failure of an ambush targeting a military commander’s convoy.