KEY POINTS
- A suspected Lakurawa fighter identified as Mar Dego has been linked by local sources to Friday’s mosque attack in Dekera, Niger State.
- Gunmen reportedly abducted several worshippers during prayers.
- Community leaders are calling for increased security presence as authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the attack.
A suspected member of the Lakurawa terrorist group, identified by local residents as Mar Dego, has been linked to an attack on a mosque in Dekera District, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday when armed men stormed the mosque while worshippers were observing prayers.
According to residents familiar with the attack, the assailants abducted several people during the assault.
However, the exact number of people taken away remains unclear, as there has been no official confirmation from security authorities.
Community sources identified Mar Dego, described as a suspected Lakurawa fighter, among those allegedly involved in the attack.
The claim has not been independently verified, and security agencies have yet to publicly confirm the identity of the attackers.
The reported involvement of a suspected Lakurawa operative has heightened concerns among residents, particularly because the group has been associated with violent attacks and abductions in parts of northwestern Nigeria.
Security Agencies Yet to Comment
As of the latest reports, security agencies had not issued an official statement confirming the mosque attack, the reported abductions or the alleged involvement of Mar Dego.
The absence of an official account has left residents relying largely on eyewitness reports and information from community sources as authorities work to establish what happened.
Community leaders in Dekera have called for stronger security measures in the area, including an increased presence of security personnel to protect residents and prevent further attacks.
Residents are also expected to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, a measure authorities have repeatedly encouraged in communities affected by insecurity.
The incident adds to growing concerns over armed groups operating across parts of northwestern Nigeria, where rural communities remain vulnerable to attacks, kidnappings and other forms of violence.