Mosque Attack in Katsina: Worshippers Killed During Dawn Prayers
Mosque Attack in Katsina
Mosque Attack in Katsina: Worshippers Killed During Dawn Prayers
A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Thursday when armed gunmen stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, killing worshippers during the dawn (Fajr) prayers.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded the mosque around 5:00 a.m., shortly after prayers had commenced. Worshippers, caught in the middle of the attack, were unable to escape as the gunmen reportedly locked some exit points before opening fire indiscriminately.
Conflicting Death Toll Figures
While local authorities initially reported 13 fatalities, residents and international media outlets, including the Times of India, suggest that the death toll is much higher. Community leaders in Malumfashi confirmed that mass burials were conducted later in the day, fueling concerns that the government may be underreporting the scale of the tragedy.
Survivors Speak Out
A survivor, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals, recounted the harrowing moments:
“We had just started the first raka’at of the prayer when we heard gunshots. People tried to run, but they shot at anyone attempting to escape. I lost my brother in front of me.”
Security Response
Katsina State authorities have deployed additional security operatives and military personnel to the affected community. Police spokesperson Abubakar Aliyu confirmed that a joint operation is underway to track down the attackers.
“We have intensified surveillance across vulnerable communities, and our men are combing the forests that serve as hideouts for these criminal elements,” Aliyu said.
National Concern
This latest attack underscores the worsening insecurity in Nigeria’s Northwest region, where armed bandits and extremist groups frequently target villages, schools, religious centers, and highways. Katsina, the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has remained one of the worst-hit states in recent years despite heavy military operations.
Civil society organizations have called on the government to take urgent action. The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) described the incident as a “senseless act of terror” and demanded stronger intelligence gathering and community protection mechanisms.
Community Mourning
The atmosphere in Unguwan Mantau is heavy with grief, as families mourn relatives lost in the attack. Residents say the mosque, once a symbol of unity, now stands as a grim reminder of insecurity. Several community members have begun fleeing the area out of fear of further attacks.
Government’s Position
The Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Radda, condemned the killings and promised support for affected families. He assured residents that security forces would not relent until the perpetrators are brought to justice.
“This is a dark day for Katsina. We stand with the families of the victims and assure our people that government will strengthen its fight against terrorism and banditry,” the governor stated.
Conclusion
As Nigeria continues to grapple with rising insecurity, the Katsina mosque massacre raises fresh concerns over the safety of citizens in their places of worship. For many residents, the pressing question remains: how long before lasting peace returns to the region?
