By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Armed bandits attacked Sayaya community in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State in the early hours of Thursday, killing seven residents, including a woman. Witnesses said the attackers stormed the village while people slept, fired gunshots indiscriminately, and forced residents to flee. The attack occurred despite recent security operations in the area and has renewed fears across the community.
Residents Recount Night of Terror
Residents described the assault as one of the deadliest attacks in recent months.
“We were asleep when we heard heavy gunshots,” a resident who requested anonymity said.
“People were screaming, children were crying, and everyone was running in different directions. By the time the gunmen left, seven of our people were lying lifeless.”
According to residents, the victims were farmers and traders who had hoped to return to normal life after weeks of relative peace.
Alleged Bandit Leader Identified
Community members alleged that a notorious bandit leader, Kachallah Fulani Muhammad, led the attack.
Residents linked him to several deadly raids and kidnappings in Matazu and surrounding communities.
“This is the same man who has terrorised our villages for years,” a resident said.
“He abducted Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari (retd.) and his wife. Anytime we hear his name, we know trouble is coming.”
Communities Report Growing Insecurity
Residents said insecurity has spread beyond Sayaya.
They alleged that armed men recently blocked the Karaduwa–Rimaye Road during daylight hours.
According to witnesses, the attackers stopped vehicles, assaulted travellers, and abducted several people.
“They stopped vehicles on the road as if it was their territory,” commuter Sulaiman Sale Sayaya said.
“People were beaten, some were taken away, and nobody could help.”
Troop Withdrawal Blamed for Renewed Attacks
Several residents linked the renewed violence to the withdrawal of troops attached to Operation Fansan Yamma.
They claimed bandits returned shortly after security personnel left the area.
“When the soldiers were here, we could sleep with our eyes closed,” a community elder said.
“But once they left, the bandits came back with more anger. It feels like we have been abandoned.”
Families Mourn Victims
Mourners gathered in Matazu town to bury the victims according to Islamic rites.
Families and friends struggled to cope with the loss.
A community leader described the attack as a tragedy for the entire local government area.
“This is not just a tragedy for Sayaya,” he said.
“It is a tragedy for the entire local government. We have lost innocent lives, and this pain will remain with us for a long time.”
Residents Flee Community
Fear has forced many residents to abandon their homes.
Several families reportedly relocated to Matazu town and neighbouring communities.
“We cannot stay and wait to be killed,” a displaced woman said while moving her children.
“At least in town, we can sleep without hearing gunshots.”
Victims Identified
Sources identified the victims as:
- Lawal Chiki of Sayaya
- Abdullahi Mustapha
- Yalili Mai Ruwa
- Isau Maharba
- Salma Tasi’u
- Ibrahim Uncle, who reportedly suffered from a mental illness
Authorities have yet to release an official list of casualties.
Farmers and Traders Fear for Their Safety
For years, communities across Katsina State have faced repeated bandit attacks.
The violence has led to killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and economic losses.
Many farmers now avoid their farmlands, while traders travel less frequently on major roads.
“Our farms are there, but our lives are more important,” a farmer said.
“If we go to the bush, we may not return.”
Residents Demand Lasting Security Solution
Community leaders urged the state and federal governments to implement long-term security measures.
They argued that temporary military deployments cannot guarantee lasting peace.
“We don’t want temporary peace,” a community leader said.
“We want a permanent solution. We want to live without fear. We want our children to sleep at home, not run for their lives.”
Police Yet to Confirm Attack
When contacted, the Katsina State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Sadik Aliyu, said the command had not verified the report.
He promised to provide an update.
However, no further response had been received as of the time of filing this report.
