Nine soldiers and a police officer have been killed following a deadly ambush by gunmen in Giro Masa community, located in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Several civilians were also reportedly caught in the attack.
The incident, which happened on Tuesday night, also saw the attackers torch two military gun trucks during the assault, escalating the level of destruction in the area.
Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the attack on Wednesday while addressing journalists after visiting victims at the mortuary and the Accident and Emergency unit of the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi, where the injured and deceased were taken.
The hospital is part of the Federal Teaching Hospital Birnin Kebbi.
Describing the assault as deeply tragic, the governor expressed sympathy for the slain security personnel and pledged government support for their families as well as those receiving treatment.
“This is a sad incident. These are the soldiers who protect the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation. The Kebbi State Government will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives of its citizens,” he said.
Governor Idris added that the state government would take responsibility for the medical expenses of the injured officers and ensure adequate assistance is extended to the bereaved families.
He also noted that he had proceeded to the attack site for an on-the-spot assessment as part of efforts to strengthen security response in the area.
