Nigeria ( The COW News Digital)Nigeria has once again been plunged into a wave of violence after armed bandits attacked a mosque and nearby villages in Katsina State, killing at least 50 people and leaving several others injured.
According to international media reports, the deadly assault occurred on Tuesday, August 19, in the Unguwar Mantau area of Malumfashi district. Worshippers had gathered for the dawn (Fajr) prayers when heavily armed assailants stormed the mosque and opened fire. Initial reports mentioned a handful of casualties, but local residents and officials later confirmed that the death toll had surged.
Witnesses described a horrifying scene. “Nine people were killed instantly inside the mosque, and many of the injured later succumbed to their wounds,” said resident Nura Musa. Local lawmaker Aminu Ibrahim reported that around 30 worshippers were killed in the mosque alone. In addition, bandits attacked nearby villages, where they set homes ablaze and burned at least 20 people alive. Several others were abducted during the raids.
The attackers also looted property, destroyed houses, and spread fear across multiple settlements. Survivors said the gunmen arrived in large numbers, riding motorcycles, and appeared to be avenging a recent confrontation with community vigilantes. Over the weekend, local self-defense groups had ambushed a gang of bandits, sparking fears of retaliation.
Tragically, the vigilantes had gathered at the mosque for prayers and rest after a night of guarding their village when the bandits struck. This timing amplified the death toll, as dozens of unarmed defenders were caught off guard.
Katsina, the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has long been a hotspot for banditry and mass killings. The region is plagued by armed gangs who routinely raid villages, extort communities, kidnap for ransom, and clash with local defense groups. Security forces have struggled to contain the escalating violence despite repeated military operations.
Human rights organizations have condemned the killings, urging Nigerian authorities to strengthen security in rural areas where citizens are most vulnerable. Analysts warn that unless urgent measures are taken, such attacks will continue to devastate communities, deepen mistrust in the government, and fuel instability in northern Nigeria.
As families bury their dead and search for missing loved ones, anger and grief hang heavy over Katsina. Survivors say they fear further attacks if the state fails to intervene decisively.
