By Julian Osamoto
At least 30 people have been killed after terrorists attacked four mosques in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attackers reportedly struck simultaneously during Friday prayers in Dekara, Kpenya, Sabon-Gida and Gidan-Zana communities, abducting more than 60 worshippers.
According to the Chairman of Borgu LGA, Mohammed Nasir Abdullahi, the attackers later killed about 30 of the abducted worshippers.
He said residents had recovered and buried the bodies, while security forces had moved into the affected areas.
Meanwhile, dozens of residents have fled their communities for New Bussa and the Benin Republic following threats from the attackers.
Several houses were also reportedly set ablaze, including the residence of the District Head of Dekara, Abubakar Umar.
Police said a joint security operation was underway to track the attackers and rescue those still in captivity.
The latest attacks have further worsened insecurity in Borgu, where residents say seven of the local government’s 10 wards are affected by terrorist activity.
Farmers have been particularly affected, with residents reporting repeated attacks, killings, abductions and the destruction of villages since late 2025.
Residents also claim that terrorists have established control in parts of the Borgu Emirate and imposed levies on communities.
One resident alleged that people in Dekara District paid N10 million to terrorists in June, describing it as the second levy imposed on the community this year.
Beyond the financial burden, residents say insecurity has disrupted farming, closed schools and forced thousands of people from their homes.
They have called on the Federal and Niger State governments to intensify military operations, dismantle terrorist enclaves and provide humanitarian assistance to displaced families.
The communities also want authorities to support local vigilantes and restore access to farms and rural roads.
Recent attacks include the killing of at least 10 farmers and traditional rulers in Old Gangale on June 18, while terrorists reportedly burnt the Central Primary School in Dekara on July 5.
Between July 9 and 11, at least nine farmers were killed in separate attacks, while a bomb attack on the Dekara-Babanna Road reportedly killed four people.
More recently, terrorists reportedly blocked the Mokwa-New Bussa Road on August 9, killing two travellers and abducting seven others.
The latest violence has left several communities deserted, with displaced residents seeking safety in New Bussa and neighbouring Benin Republic.
