By SUNTV Global Channel | January 24, 2026
At least six farmers have been killed in a fresh late-night attack on Wawa community in Niger State, deepening fears over the rapidly deteriorating security situation along the Niger–Kwara axis.
The victims — all male residents of the same community — were identified as Bahbe Bokobe, Luku (a member of the local vigilante group), Bahgado Bohboh, Naziru Kidebe, Abdulrahman Kidebe, popularly known as Ogede, and Bashiru Dahtobeh.
According to security and community sources who spoke to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the attackers arrived in large numbers at about 10:00pm on Thursday, opening fire indiscriminately on residents who were on their farms before fleeing the area.
Security operatives later cordoned off the village, while the bodies of the victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Wawa, where they were deposited for autopsy.
A security source confirmed the incident, saying:
“At least six farmers were killed late Thursday night when armed assailants stormed Wawa Village and opened fire on residents working on their farms. All the victims were from the same community.”
Beyond the immediate tragedy, security analysts warn that the nature of the attack points to a more dangerous evolution of violence in the region.
While such incidents have often been dismissed as banditry, emerging intelligence suggests a shift towards a hybrid insurgent campaign. Experts note that the execution-style killings, coordinated movements, extended presence within communities, and structured withdrawals into forest hideouts are inconsistent with ordinary criminal raids.
“These operational patterns mirror tactics previously associated with Boko Haram’s Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction, now adapting to new theatres,” a security analyst said.
The Wawa axis has become a growing strategic concern due to its location along critical routes linking Niger State, Kwara State, and the Benin Republic, as well as its proximity to sensitive infrastructure, including military formations.
In particular, the Kainji National Park, surrounded by communities such as Nuku, Durumma, Woro, Wawa, and Babanna, is increasingly believed to be serving as a rear base for armed groups operating across the Niger–Kwara corridor. The park’s vast terrain and cross-border access offer militants mobility, supply routes, and escape paths.
Residents are now calling for urgent and sustained security intervention, warning that without decisive action, farming communities across the corridor may face continued deadly attacks.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring updates as they unfold.
