By John Moses
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Alhaji Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, has condemned the recent killing of Nigerian soldiers in the Mariga Local Government Area, describing the attack as “barbaric, wicked, and inhumane.”
The tragic incident, which occurred on Tuesday in the Kwanan Dutse and Gulbin Boka communities, claimed the lives of several soldiers who had long provided security in the region.
Speaking to the Newsmen on Wednesday in Minna, Sarkindaji expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a significant setback for security and peace in his constituency. “I received the news of the killing of these promising young officers with a heavy heart,” he said. “They have been instrumental in protecting our communities.”
He added that the assault on military camps in the area posed a grave threat to both the local farming population and the broader security landscape of Niger State.
The Speaker suggested the attack may have been a calculated effort to weaken military presence and allow criminal elements to operate freely. “This appears to be a deliberate attempt to drive the military out of our communities and give room for bandits to continue their atrocities—ranging from kidnapping and murder to rape and cattle rustling,” he noted.
Sarkindaji further alleged that many of the perpetrators originate from neighbouring states, using the border regions to launch their attacks.
Offering his condolences to the Nigerian military, he urged them to remain resolute in their mission. “These criminals must be brought to justice. They must not escape accountability for their heinous crimes,” he asserted.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
