Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has confirmed that 21 villagers lost their lives during a recent bandit attack on Mansur village in Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state, while security forces neutralized over 60 of the attackers in a fierce gun battle.

During a condolence visit to the affected community on Thursday, Governor Mohammed revealed that the victims included 13 vigilante members and 10 civilians. The attack, which occurred two weeks ago, was described by the governor as a major security threat to the state.

"As they inflicted serious loss on us, over 60 of them died too in the fierce battle," the governor stated. "Despite their superior firepower, our young vigilantes and security agencies showed exceptional courage."

Mohammed extended condolences on behalf of the state and Federal Government, assuring residents that he is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to prevent further attacks in the region.

"We are here on behalf of the government to commiserate with this community, especially those in Alkaleri, Gwana, Duguri, Yelwan Duguri, and parts of Bauchi Local Government," he said.

Support for Affected Families

To support the affected families, Governor Mohammed announced a compensation package of N5 million for each family of the slain vigilantes and N3 million for the families of the deceased civilians. An additional N20 million will be disbursed for vigilante logistics to strengthen community security efforts.

The governor also disclosed plans to recruit over 2,100 vigilantes before the end of the year, beginning with 300 to 500 from the most affected areas. He assured that the recruits would receive proper training and be placed on a minimum wage structure to ensure professionalism and prevent abuse of power.

Mohammed urged traditional rulers to expose informants aiding criminal activities in their communities while reassuring residents of the government's commitment to protecting lives and property.

"These people have come to the wrong place," Mohammed declared. "If it comes to a point where I have to throw away this 'Babanriga' and join you, I will join you, In Sha Allah."

Details of the Attack

The deadly attack was carried out by armed men suspected to be bandits two weeks ago on multiple villages in Gwana District, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The affected communities — Mansur, Digare, Sabuwar Sara, and Yalo — were attacked while residents were asleep.

Most of the victims were members of local vigilante groups from Gwana and Duguri districts who had been safeguarding their communities from repeated attacks along the volatile borders with Gombe, Plateau, and Taraba states.

The attack highlights the growing security challenges in Nigeria's northern states, where banditry and related violence continue to threaten rural communities despite government efforts to curb the menace.