Suspected bandits have killed the village head of Galla in Borgu local government area, Niger state, Ahmed Yusuf, and four other people in a fresh attack on the community.
The traditional ruler was reportedly killed in his palace, according to sources familiar with the incident.
The sources said the bandits killed four other residents and abducted an unspecified number of people.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security situation in Borgu, coming only days after suspected terrorists attacked several communities in the area.
The attackers reportedly stormed a mosque in Kpenya while Muslims were observing Juma’at prayers on Friday and abducted many worshippers.
Following the attack, the Niger state government directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted worshippers and restore normalcy to the affected communities.
Sources said the village head had previously warned suspected bandits to stay away from his community.
The warning was allegedly perceived by the criminals as an affront, prompting the attack on the traditional ruler.
The circumstances surrounding the reported killing could not, however, be independently verified.
The late traditional ruler was a retired army master warrant officer. (Premium Times)
