By Abdullahi Egba
Six persons have been reportedly killed and fifty others abducted by gunmen in Rafi and Wishishi Local Government Areas of Niger State.
Sources say the deaths occurred after an exchange of fire between military operatives and gunmen in a gun battle during which several others were injured.
An indigene of a village in Rafi local government council who spoke under anonymity told Channels Television that among the six persons killed is a 6-month pregnant mother.
Villagers in their separate conversations expressed shock at why the attack is coming barely a few days before the governorship and House of Assembly elections in Nigeria.
A similar attack took place a few days before the Presidential and National Assembly elections in Mariga local government council of the state.
Confirming the latest incident, Niger State Commissioner for Internal Security and Humanitarian Affairs, Mr Emmanuel Umar said they are yet to ascertain the real number of casualties, noting that the government is not resting on its oars to rid the state of all forms of criminality.
Channels Television