Police Confirm Five Killed in Terror Attack on Kebbi Mosque; Kidnap Victim Loses Sight After Six Months in Captivity -By Abdulazeez Toheeb Olawale

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that five persons were killed when suspected terrorists attacked a mosque in Kebbi State during prayers on Thursday.

Police said the assailants stormed the mosque in Maiyama LGA while worshippers were observing prayers, opened fire, and fled the scene before security operatives arrived. Several others were reportedly injured and taken to nearby health facilities for treatment.

A police spokesperson described the incident as a “terror-related attack” and said operatives have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Security patrols have since been reinforced in surrounding communities, while residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.

The attack adds to a growing list of violent incidents in parts of northern Nigeria, where armed groups have increasingly targeted civilian spaces, including villages, farms and places of worship.

Kidnap survivor loses sight after six months in bandits’ den

In a separate development, a man who was kidnapped and held for six months in a bandits’ camp has reportedly lost his sight and is now appealing for help after his family failed to raise the ransom demanded by his abductors.

Sources in the community said the victim was released after prolonged captivity in a forest hideout. His eyesight deteriorated severely during detention, allegedly due to harsh conditions and lack of medical care. Family members said they had sold personal belongings and borrowed money but were still unable to meet the ransom demanded.

An audio recording shared by relatives captures the man pleading for assistance, highlighting the financial and emotional toll of kidnappings on families already grappling with poverty.
Local leaders said cases of prolonged abductions and ransom demands have become more frequent in rural communities, with many victims returning home with severe physical and psychological trauma.

Growing concerns
Community leaders and civil society groups have renewed calls for stronger security presence and intelligence-led operations to curb attacks and abductions in the region. They also urged authorities to prioritise support for victims of violence, including access to medical care and psychosocial services.

Residents in affected areas say fear has become routine, with many limiting movement to avoid attacks and kidnappings. “People are afraid to go to the mosque, farms, or even visit neighbouring villages,” a community leader said.

Police said investigations into the Kebbi mosque attack are ongoing and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice.