By: Daure David
In a harrowing act of violence, armed bandits stormed a mosque in Gidan Mantau village, Katsina State, during the early hours of Tuesday morning, killing at least 27 Muslim worshippers as they performed the Subh (Fajr) prayers.
The attack, which occurred around 5 a.m., has left the community in mourning and sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria. Survivors recounted the terrifying moment gunmen opened fire on congregants mid-prayer, leaving scores injured and many dead.
Local sources suggest the massacre was a retaliatory strike following a recent community-led ambush on the bandits, in which villagers reportedly rescued abducted victims and seized weapons. Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Nasir Muazu, confirmed the reprisal motive, stating: “The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting sporadically”.
Acting Governor Faruk Jobe has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for urgent federal intervention, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to protect vulnerable communities in the region.
Former Minister of Communications and respected Islamic cleric, Prof. Isa Pantami, condemned the killings, calling the perpetrators “heartless, malevolent, and worse than animals.” He urged security agencies to deploy advanced tracking technologies to apprehend the attackers and restore peace.
The massacre has reignited political tensions, with calls from citizens and activists to vote out the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government, citing its failure to curb insecurity and protect lives.
As prayers continue for the departed souls, the nation grapples with grief, demanding justice and lasting peace.
