A deadly ambush by armed men suspected to be Lakurawa terrorists have claimed the lives of at least eleven soldiers and a police officer in Kebbi state.
The incident happened in the Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of the north west state on Wednesday.
The security operatives, who were said to be operating in the area, were reportedly ambushed on their way to secure a construction company premise the terrorists were using as a hideout. Two military trucks were set ablaze during the ambush.
The Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, confirmed the tragic incident, describing it as callous, unfortunate and barbaric.
Speaking during his visit to the accident and emergency unit of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, where the victims were admitted, he reiterated the commitment of his government to providing adequate protection and security for lives and properties of residents of the state
He also disclosed that the state government would foot the medical bills of the injured and provide adequate support to the families of the deceased security personnel.
He said, “Everybody knows that the Kebbi State Government doesn’t play with security issues. We are here; we have seen things by ourselves. And we have directed the CMD (Chief Medical Director) of the hospital to ensure they do the needful for those who are receiving treatment.
“And at the same time, for those who lost their lives, the government of Kebbi will do everything possible to assist the family. It is a great loss and it is a very sad situation. But we have to accept what has happened in good faith.
“These are the soldiers who are protecting the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation. The Kebbi State Government will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives of its citizens.
“We have sympathy for the 11 soldiers and one police officer who lost their lives while on a rescue mission,” he said.
The governor described the Lakurawa group as callous and assured that the state government would support security efforts. He also promised to meet with the Chief of Defence Staff in Abuja over the incident.
“We will replace the two operational vehicles burned by the bandits,” he added.
Idris commended the military officers for their efforts and urged them to remain steadfast.
“I thank the military for doing their best and being alive to their responsibility. This incident should not make you relax; continue to show professionalism,” he charged the soldiers
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