In Niger State, North Central Nigeria, suspected bandits have issued a grave warning to residents of M.I. Wushishi Estate in Minna, the state capital.
The bandits have threatened to kill residents unless they vacate the estate. The threats follow an attack in which the bandits, believed to be illegal miners, broke windows and damaged vehicles while most male residents were away at work.
A resident, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the situation, reported that the bandits’ attack came after residents had previously reported the illegal miners to the police. The resident said, “These hoodlums, whom we suspect are miners, have told us to leave or face death. They invaded the estate in broad daylight, causing extensive damage.”
The resident also mentioned that the attack happened after many men had left for work, targeting areas where top civil servants, including directors and permanent secretaries, reside. “Many people have already moved out of the estate for fear of further attacks. The situation is dire, with no place safe from bandits, terrorists, or local criminals,” the resident lamented.
Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed the attack but stated that peace has since been restored to the estate.