Scores flee homes as gunmen attack Niger communities again

Residents of over five communities along the Kontagora-Rijau road in Mariga and Rijau Local Government Areas of Niger State have fled their homes as a result of terrorist attacks.

The terrorists first attacked Dusai village, which is a few kilometres away from Kontagora town, at about noon on Sunday while another village, Kuimo, which is close to Rijau town was attacked at about 4 pm on Monday.

Chairman of Rijau Local Government Council, Bello Bako, who confirmed the attack in a phone interview on Tuesday said that no death has been confirmed adding that several residents were injured.

He said, “We have not seen or heard of any death but several people were wounded in their quest to escape the onslaught of the terrorists.”

Bako added that he and his officials are working out ways to ensure that the fleeing residents get somewhere to stay.

Fal’ai Danladi, who was among the fleeing residents from the attacked communities, said she got injured when she fell while trying to escape.

Another fleeing resident from the Warare community, Aliyu Bello said that he decided to run because he knew that if he is abducted, it won’t be easy on him.

“I had to run for my life because if these people abduct me, it won’t be easy for me and my family,” he said.

Bello further stated that they deserted their community and moved to Rijau for refuge. Punch