Jun 2, 2026

Amnesty International Condemns Killing of 17 Eid Celebrants in Sokoto Community Attack

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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SOKOTO, Nigeria — Gunmen unleashed terror on a peaceful Sokoto community during Eid-el-Kabir festivities, killing at least 17 people in a daylight assault that has drawn sharp condemnation from Amnesty International.

The attack occurred Monday in Dangulbi community, Tureta Local Government Area, as residents gathered with family members and visitors who had traveled home for the celebrations.

Armed bandits on motorcycles stormed the village between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., firing indiscriminately, looting shops and homes, and forcing survivors to flee into surrounding forests. Among the dead were seven visitors celebrating Sallah.

Amnesty International Nigeria strongly condemned the killings Tuesday, describing them as yet another glaring failure by authorities to safeguard vulnerable rural communities from relentless armed violence.

“Authorities must ensure justice and protection after gunmen kill 17 in Dangulbi,” the organization stated in a post on X.

It urged Nigerian authorities to conduct a thorough, independent investigation, hold perpetrators accountable, and take immediate steps to prevent further attacks.

The rights group highlighted the timing of the massacre — during a major religious holiday — as particularly devastating, underscoring how insecurity continues to shatter everyday life and cultural observances across northern Nigeria.

Local sources told journalists that the attackers arrived in large numbers on about 150 motorcycles, armed with sophisticated weapons.

They opened fire without warning, turning a joyful celebration into a scene of carnage. Many residents remain displaced, fearing further reprisals.

This latest incident adds to a troubling pattern of banditry and mass killings in Sokoto and neighboring states, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted farming communities, imposed illegal levies, and displaced thousands.

Critics argue that despite repeated government promises, security responses remain inadequate, leaving ordinary citizens exposed.

Amnesty International has repeatedly called on federal and state authorities to strengthen community protection measures, improve intelligence sharing, and ensure swift justice.

In its statement, the organization stressed that such failures erode public trust and embolden criminal elements.

As of Tuesday evening, Sokoto State authorities had not released an official casualty figure or detailed response to the attack. Security agencies have launched operations in the area, but residents say more sustained presence is needed.

The tragedy comes amid broader national concern over rising insecurity, as similar attacks continue to claim lives and disrupt livelihoods across the northwest.

Families of the victims are mourning loved ones lost in what should have been a time of peace and reunion.

Amnesty International reiterated its demand: Nigerian authorities must move beyond statements to concrete action that protects lives and restores confidence in governance.

For the people of Dangulbi and countless other vulnerable communities, justice delayed feels like justice denied.