Bandits Kill Eight Farmers, Injure Five in Sokoto Attack

At least eight farmers have been killed and five others injured after suspected bandits attacked Ghandi community in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The attack occurred at about 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, sending residents into panic as the attackers reportedly opened fire on people in the farming community.

The spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the incident.

Rufai said the command was aware of the attack and was gathering further information.

“Yes, we are aware of the attack. Eight farmers were killed while another five were injured,” he said.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said the attackers arrived in the community around 3:00 p.m. and began shooting at farmers.

The resident also alleged that the attack was a reprisal following recent security operations in the area during which some members of the bandit group were reportedly killed.

However, the police have not publicly confirmed the alleged motive for the attack. The reprisal claim therefore remains an allegation attributed to the local source.

The attack has renewed concerns about the safety of farmers and residents in Ghandi and neighbouring communities, where insecurity can disrupt farming activities and threaten livelihoods.

For many residents who depend on agriculture, attacks of this nature can mean not only the loss of lives but also reduced access to farms and increased fear around the farming season.

The Sokoto State Police Command said it was still gathering information on the incident. Further details on the attack and any security response are expected as the investigation continues.