Angry residents of Gwashi community in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State reportedly forced the state’s Deputy Governor, Mani Malam Mummuni, to leave the area on Sunday.
The incident unfolded when Mummuni arrived in the community to express sympathy with residents following a series of attacks by armed bandits. His visit was intended to console affected families and reassure the community of support amid the worsening security situation.
However, the planned condolence visit took an unexpected turn when aggrieved youths confronted the deputy governor and members of his delegation. The protesters reportedly expressed their displeasure over the continued violence and the failure to restore lasting peace in Gwashi and neighbouring settlements.
Footage circulating from the scene captured the tense atmosphere as the situation deteriorated. Reports indicated that security personnel accompanying the deputy governor withdrew from the area during the confrontation, leaving their vehicle behind as tensions intensified.
Residents of Gwashi and other communities across Bukkuyum have continued to grapple with repeated attacks, kidnappings and killings attributed to armed groups. The persistent insecurity has also disrupted movement between settlements, making it increasingly difficult for residents to travel safely and conduct their daily commercial activities.
Local markets, which serve as important centres for trade and the exchange of essential commodities, have become difficult to access because of the dangers posed by armed assailants operating along surrounding routes.
The confrontation involving the deputy governor occurred against the backdrop of another deadly attack that reportedly claimed approximately 20 lives in Zamfara State.
According to reports, gunmen ambushed traders travelling under military protection in an attack that highlighted the continuing security challenges confronting the state.
The victims were reportedly travelling from Gwashi to Nasarawa Market in Bukkuyum Local Government Area on Saturday, October 10, when the attackers struck at about 2 p.m.
Casualty figures indicated that four soldiers, three police officers, one operative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and 12 civilians died during the incident. Nineteen other people were reportedly injured in the assault.
The attack has further raised concerns about the safety of traders and security personnel operating in areas affected by persistent banditry.
In another incident reported approximately one month earlier, six Islamic clerics were abducted by armed men along the Dakko-Damri feeder road in Bakura Local Government Area.
The clerics, identified as imams, were reportedly travelling towards Talata Mafara when their journey was interrupted by the kidnappers.
The Zamfara State Police Command spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the abduction, stating that the victims were intercepted by suspected bandits.
The latest developments underscore the continuing security difficulties facing several communities in Zamfara, where repeated attacks have heightened fear, disrupted livelihoods and intensified calls for stronger protection.
The circumstances surrounding the deputy governor’s departure are likely to renew public attention on the authorities’ response to insecurity and the growing frustration among residents affected by recurring violence.
