Terror returned to Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State as suspected Lakurawa bandits attacked Sayinna community, killing the village head and one other resident.
The victims were identified as 47-year-old Alhaji Murtala Sa’adu, the village head of Sayinna, and his neighbour, Malam Ibrahim Mai-Kudi.
They were shot dead around 1:30 a.m. when the attackers stormed the village.
Confirming the incident, Alhaji Garzali Raccah, Special Adviser to the Tangaza council chairman, said the assailants targeted the traditional ruler because of his support for local vigilante groups resisting insecurity in the area.
“They opened fire sporadically, leaving the community in fear and confusion. Sadly, our village head and one other resident lost their lives in this cowardly attack,” Raccah said.
According to him, the Lakurawa insurgents had repeatedly warned residents against backing vigilantes, whom they regard as a threat to their activities.
The killing of the village head, he noted, was a clear attempt to weaken community resistance.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived with heavy gunfire, making it evident they came to eliminate those challenging their dominance.
Both victims were respected members of Sayinna community, known for their active support of local security initiatives.
Their deaths, villagers said, have left the community shaken and vulnerable.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were later deployed to the area, evacuated the bodies, and commenced patrols to forestall further attacks.