The African Union has condemned the killing of dozens of civilians and the abduction of women and children during recent attacks in north-western Nigeria, calling for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
Recall that at least 38 people were killed in the village of Dutse Dan Ajiya in northwestern Nigeria’s Zamfara State when armed men opened fire.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, denounced the violence which occurred on February 21, 2026, in Zamfara State.
He described the assault as a “heinous and coordinated terrorist attack” that led to the deaths of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of several residents, particularly women and children.
“The African Union unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations,” Youssouf said, stressing that such attacks represent “grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security and stability.”
The AU also expressed solidarity with the government and people of Nigeria, offering condolences to bereaved families and wishing injured victims a speedy recovery.
Youssouf reaffirmed the continental body’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity, noting that “stronger, coordinated and collective action is required to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities.”
He further called for the “immediate, safe and unconditional release” of all abducted women and children.
The violence reportedly occurred in Dutsin Dan Ajiya village in Anka Local Government Area, where armed attackers stormed the community late at night.
Residents said the assailants blocked access roads before opening fire on fleeing villagers.
“After sealing off the roads, they began shooting indiscriminately and people ran in different directions,” one local source recounted.
He added that many residents were killed, several sustained injuries, and others were taken away during the raid, which lasted until the early hours of the following day.
