Troops of the 223 Light Battalion of the Nigerian Army stationed in Zuru have successfully repelled a large-scale attack by over 400 armed bandits on Ribah town, located in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The attack, which occurred earlier this week, sparked an intense and prolonged gun battle between the insurgents and soldiers, resulting in the deaths of many of the assailants. According to eyewitness accounts and official statements, several of the slain bandits were evacuated by their comrades, but many others were left behind, along with an assortment of weapons recovered at the scene.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Nasir Idris, confirmed the attempted invasion and praised the Nigerian Army for its bravery and tactical excellence. He noted that the troops stood their ground despite the numerical strength of the attackers and ensured the security of Ribah and surrounding communities.
Alhaji AbdulRahman Zagga, Director of Security at the Kebbi State Cabinet Office, also confirmed the incident during a media briefing in Birnin Kebbi. He commended the Nigerian Air Force for delivering strategic airstrikes that inflicted significant casualties on the retreating bandits. “Though the gunfire initially caused panic, calm has since returned to the area, and normal activities have resumed,” he said.
Zagga added that the assailants were believed to be part of the same faction that recently attacked parts of Niger State before crossing into Kebbi for another assault. He emphasized that the failed operation was a testament to the effectiveness of Governor Idris’s proactive security strategy across the state.
The attack marks one of the most significant armed confrontations in the region this year and highlights both the threat posed by organized bandit groups and the ongoing efforts of security agencies to secure rural communities in northern Nigeria.
