Gunmen have reportedly attacked several communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, abducting an unspecified number of worshippers shortly after Friday prayers.
The attacks occurred in Dekara, Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida and Masaka communities, where the assailants reportedly targeted residents around mosques and took several people away.
Jafar Muhammad Shetiman Borgu, the lawmaker representing the area, confirmed the incident, saying authorities were yet to determine the exact number of people abducted.
According to reports, some of the worshippers were attacked with machetes during the invasion. While some managed to escape, others reportedly suffered injuries as they fled from the attackers.
After leaving Dekara, the gunmen allegedly moved into neighbouring communities and carried out further abductions after worshippers had concluded their prayers. Among those reportedly taken were youths and heads of households.
The attacks have heightened fears among residents of Borgu, an area that shares boundaries with Kebbi and Kwara states as well as the Republic of Benin.
The lawmaker said forests in the area were being used as hideouts by suspected members of the Lakurawa and Mamudawa groups.
He added that some victims escaped with injuries, while others were taken into the forest after the attackers surrounded the mosque.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over the security situation in communities across the border areas of Niger State.
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