Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State and his entourage narrowly avoided a tragic incident last Sunday after their convoy mistakenly entered a terrorist-controlled zone on the outskirts of Igade in Mashegu Local Government Area and Bangi in Mariga Local Government Area.
The governor was on a tour of Niger North Senatorial District to assess ongoing development projects. During his visit, he announced plans to extend a five-kilometer road project in Igade to Mariga Local Government Area. Additionally, he promised to rehabilitate health centers in the region to improve access to healthcare services for residents.
However, the return trip to Kotangora took an unexpected and dangerous turn when the convoy lost its way. Sources close to the governor revealed that the team accidentally strayed into a region known to be a stronghold of terrorists. “They missed their route and ended up in the Bangi-Igade axis, which is heavily controlled by bandits,” a source disclosed under anonymity for security reasons.
Security personnel accompanying the convoy quickly assessed the situation and advised a retreat. As the team attempted to reverse course, they were ambushed by gunfire from the terrorists. The security team responded decisively, overpowering the attackers. Some bandits were reportedly killed, while others fled into the forest.
The Bangi and Igade areas have seen a surge in terrorist activity in recent months. In October, three people were killed along the Bangi-Kontonkkoro road, and a police officer lost his life during a clash with bandits. November witnessed the murder of seven farmers and the destruction of 50 bags of maize by terrorists, underscoring the ongoing insecurity in the region.
For more news updates, stay connected with Chronicles Reporters. Join our WhatsApp channel here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VabITrvEAKW7DSkTfP0J.