Tragedy struck in Sokoto State on Sunday afternoon as six people lost their lives following a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion in Gwabro village, located within Tangaza Local Government Area.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, Ahmad Rufai, who verified the casualty figure but withheld further operational details pending ongoing investigations.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene, which unfolded amidst Eid-el-Kabir festivities. One witness, who identified himself as Hashimu, recounted how youths traditionally travel between villages to pay Salah homage to relatives and community elders. It was during one such visit that the group encountered the deadly blast.
“All of a sudden, there was a loud explosion. We later realized some of our people had been killed instantly,” Hashimu said, visibly shaken.
Local authorities acted swiftly following the blast. According to Garzali Raka, an aide to the Tangaza Local Government Chairman, the victims were laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites later that evening.
Community sources suspect the attack may have been carried out by members of the notorious Lakurawa terrorist group. The group has been linked to a series of violent attacks and kidnappings across Tangaza and neighboring Gudu Local Government Areas.
Villagers, now living in heightened fear, are calling on both state and federal governments to urgently intervene and bolster security measures in the region.
“The Lakurawa terrorists have made life unbearable for our people. We are no longer safe, even during festive periods. The government must act now,” one resident urged.
The Sokoto State Police Command assured the public that investigations are underway and pledged to intensify security operations to track down those responsible.
