By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Terrorists have invaded Bagna and Erena communities in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, killing some residents and setting houses ablaze.
The terrorists were said to have stormed Bagna community on motorcycles on Tuesday, April 7, and began shooting sporadically.
They also set the community ablaze, causing frightened residents to flee in different directions.
According to a resident, the attackers invaded the community and began to set the place on fire.
The resident said, “Over 160 terrorists invaded Bagna early this morning and have been burning houses using explosives. As at this evening, Bagna community is on fire with rising thick smoke.”
The terrorists reportedly killed no fewer than five people and injured eight vigilantes who attempted to confront them. The injured persons were rushed to a nearby hospital.
The spokesman for the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the terrorist attack on Tuesday, adding that three persons were killed while joint security in the area engaged the attackers.
“On 7th April 2026 at about 6.30 a.m., information received indicated that some armed bandits invaded Bagna village and later moved to Erena village, but joint security in the area mobilised and engaged the bandits, which pushed the hoodlums out of the area.
“Unfortunately, two vigilante members and a driver from the joint security team lost their lives during the attack, while some others were injured.
“Meanwhile, the area is relatively calm whilst monitoring continues,” he said.
