Armed bandits have killed five people and abducted 18 others in attacks on communities in Niger State, raising fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in the area.
The attacks, which targeted multiple communities, have left residents grieving and heightened fears over the safety of people living in the affected areas.
The gunmen reportedly invaded the communities, killing five people and whisking away 18 others to an undisclosed location.
The circumstances surrounding the attacks, including the identities of the victims and the exact number of communities affected, remain unclear.
It is also uncertain whether security operatives have rescued any of the abducted victims or arrested suspects in connection with the incident.
The latest violence adds to persistent concerns about banditry and mass abductions in parts of north-central Nigeria, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted rural communities, travellers and residents.
Such attacks have disrupted livelihoods, displaced families and intensified calls for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable communities.
Residents in affected areas are likely to face renewed anxiety as efforts to establish the full details of the incident continue.
Authorities are expected to provide further information on the attacks and any steps being taken to secure the release of the abducted victims.
