Borgu Attack: Niger Government Clarifies Commissioner’s Remarks Were Misunderstood

The Niger State Government has explained that the comments made by the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barrister Maurice Magaji, on the recent bandit attack on Pissa Community in Borgu Local Government Area, were misconstrued by some media reports.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Obed Nuhu Nana, on Wednesday, the government said the community was attacked by armed bandits, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property.

The government described the incident as unfortunate and expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the affected community.

The comments attributed to the Homeland Security Commissioner in the statement were not meant to deny the attack happened, but to reassure the public that the security situation had been brought under control after security agencies acted swiftly.

The government said security operatives, in collaboration with local authorities and community stakeholders, responded promptly to contain the attack, prevent further casualties and halt the spread of criminal activities to neighbouring communities.

Normalcy has been restored to the area while security has been beefed up to prevent further attacks, it said.

The statement also revealed that surveillance and intelligence-led operations were ongoing across vulnerable communities in the state as part of efforts to fortify security and protect residents.

Magaji, who reiterated the state’s commitment to tackling insecurity, said the Niger State Government is committed to tackling all forms of criminality and will continue to support and coordinate security agencies to protect lives and property.

The government also urged residents to stay calm, work with security agencies and depend on verified information from official sources.

It reiterated its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of its citizens, assuring that proactive measures would continue to be implemented to ensure lasting peace and stability throughout Niger State.