Eyewitnesses reported that the armed assailants stormed the village around 9 p.m. on Saturday, wreaking havoc and forcing residents to flee for their lives. According to survivors, five youths were reportedly burned alive in a building where they sought refuge, while over 20 homes and all commercial shops in the village were set ablaze.

“The bandits came from the Dan-Musa forest and descended on our village. We are still counting the dead and searching for missing people,” said Sani Abdullahi Kuki, a resident who survived the attack.

Abdullahi added that women, children, and the elderly were among those allegedly abducted during the assault, which left the once-thriving community largely deserted.

“Some victims were burnt beyond recognition inside grain silos where they hid,” he told journalists, noting that others who survived the initial attack were rushed to Dutsinma General Hospital, with some later referred to a facility in Katsina for further treatment.

He called for urgent government intervention, warning that the violence was creeping closer to the Dutsinma town, which also hosts a federal university.

Police authorities have confirmed the attack but offered a lower casualty figure. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the spokesperson of the Katsina State Police Command, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, said five persons were confirmed dead, and two vehicles were destroyed during the incident.

“Five persons were fatally shot and two vehicles set ablaze. Investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators,” DSP Aliyu stated.

Katsina State has witnessed a surge in violent attacks, with Dutsinma being one of 22 local government areas designated as “frontline” zones due to frequent incidents of terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings. The latest attack underscores the deteriorating security situation in rural areas, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies.

The incident has left Gobirawa community in mourning and displacement, as surviving residents continue to flee to neighboring areas for safety. Community leaders are calling for increased security presence and sustained action to prevent further violence.

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The visit marks the President’s first official trip to the northern state since assuming office in May 2023.

During the visit, President Tinubu will engage with key stakeholders and security officials to assess the security situation in the region and discuss strategies to strengthen peace and stability.

A highlight of the visit will be the commissioning of two major projects completed by Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration:

Katsina Agricultural Mechanisation Centre – a strategic initiative aimed at boosting food security and promoting modern farming techniques in the state.

24-kilometre Eastern Bypass – a dual carriageway stretching from Dutsin-ma Road through Kano and Daura Roads to Yandaki in Kaita Local Government Area, designed to enhance transportation and connectivity.

In addition to official duties, President Tinubu will also attend the wedding ceremony of Governor Radda’s daughter before returning to Abuja.

The visit is expected to reinforce federal-state collaboration on key development issues, while also spotlighting the administration’s focus on agricultural innovation, security, and infrastructure development across the country.

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Speaking at the ceremony held Monday in Katsina, Radda underscored the importance of grassroots governance and the critical role local councils play in delivering development and services. 

“Corruption, inefficiency, and negligence will not be tolerated under my watch,” the governor declared. “Your election is a testament to the confidence reposed in you by the good people of your respective local government areas.” 

Describing the event as the beginning of a new era in grassroots governance, Radda charged the incoming chairmen with the responsibility of bridging the gap between government and citizens. 

“As leaders of various local government councils, you are now at the forefront of delivering development, promoting peace, and fostering unity within your communities,” he said. “The expectations are high because the local government is the closest link between the government and the people.” 

Radda also announced the creation of a new inspectorate department under the Ministry for Local Government Affairs. The department, to be headed by a Special Adviser, will monitor performance and ensure judicious use of public resources. 

“You are being entrusted with the duty of ensuring that no community is left behind,” he said, citing key priority areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, water and sanitation, and security. 

Reiterating his pledge to uphold local government autonomy, Radda stated: “I want to assure the people of Katsina State that our government is committed to implementing local government autonomy in all its ramifications across the 34 LGAs of the State.” 

The governor urged the chairmen to embrace integrity and accountability in public service. “Remember, public service is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good. Every kobo allocated to your council must be accounted for,” he emphasized. 

He further assured the new officials of his administration’s support, while calling for reciprocal excellence in leadership. “We will provide the necessary guidance, technical assistance, and financial allocation to enable you to execute your mandate. But let me emphasise — partnership works both ways.” 

The governor also encouraged the chairmen to prioritise education and youth empowerment, noting that the future of the state depends on a well-equipped younger generation. 

Also speaking at the event, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, commended Radda’s governance style and advised the new chairmen to emulate it. 

“Follow your governor’s footsteps because he is not a governor that squandered public funds,” Ganduje said. “You are fortunate to serve under a governor who believes in the independence and effective management of local governments.” 

Ganduje hailed the state government’s stance on local government autonomy and financial independence, calling it a significant milestone for grassroots development. 

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