From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Fear has returned to Kasuwar Daji in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area after gunmen attacked the farming community on Friday, killing and injuring residents and abducting an unspecified number of people.
The latest assault has reignited calls for urgent federal intervention in Zamfara’s border areas, with the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, warning that rural communities are being abandoned to bandits.
In a statement signed by State Publicity Secretary, Kasim Almustapha Kayatawa, the NDC said it received the reports “with shock and deep sorrow.” The party described the attack as part of a worsening pattern of violence that has forced farmers off their lands and shut down markets across the border LGAs.
“This unfortunate incident is yet another reminder of the fragile security situation in our state. Our people can no longer live in fear,” said State Chairman, Alhaji Surajo Garba Mai Katako. “The killing, maiming, and kidnapping of innocent citizens is unacceptable.”
Three-point demand to government
The NDC has put forward three immediate demands to both state and federal authorities:
The Zamfara State Government should increase patrols, strengthen intelligence gathering, and provide direct support to local vigilantes in Kaura Namoda and other border communities.
The Federal Government and security agencies should deploy additional personnel and modern equipment to Zamfara to decisively end banditry and kidnapping.
Citizens and traditional leaders must partner with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to prevent future attacks.
“The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government,” the party stated. “Residents deserve to farm, trade, and live peacefully without the threat of attack or abduction.”
A border LGA under siege
Kaura Namoda shares boundaries with neighboring states and the Niger Republic, making it a frequent target for armed groups. Community sources say repeated attacks in recent years have hollowed out rural settlements. Many farmers have abandoned their fields ahead of the rainy season, while traders now close markets early over fears of raids.
The NDC said the economic impact is already visible, with food insecurity rising as cultivation drops and transportation routes become unsafe.
On behalf of the party, Mai Katako extended condolences to the families of those killed, to the people of Kasuwar Daji and Kaura Namoda LGA, and to the Zamfara State Government. He prayed for “Aljannah Firdaus for the deceased, quick recovery for the injured, and the safe return of those kidnapped.”
The party added that it stands in solidarity with victims and remains committed to advocating for “peace, justice, and responsive governance.”
“May Allah restore lasting peace to our state and country,” the statement concluded.
As of press time, security agencies had not released an official casualty figure or details on rescue operations. Residents say they are waiting to see if the latest demands will translate into more boots on the ground before the next market day.