In a tragic surge of violence across Nigeria’s North-Central zone, over 20 soldiers lost their lives early Tuesday during a brutal assault by armed bandits on a military base near Bangi, situated in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The deadly ambush took place at dawn on June 24, 2025, as the heavily armed attackers overwhelmed the camp after an intense exchange of gunfire.
Security insiders informed Wizopa Officials that the bandits carried out a surprise strike.
“Today, about 20 soldiers were killed by armed bandits near Bangi, Mariga LGA of Niger State in an early morning attack on their camp,” a military-related source told Wizopa Officials.
Although full details are still coming to light, initial reports suggest that several other soldiers sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Wizopa Officials also obtained images of the fallen soldiers from the scene of the clash.
The attack has intensified growing concerns over the worsening security conditions in parts of Niger State, where communities are frequently targeted by increasingly brazen bandit groups.
Wizopa Officials also learned from sources that locals in the affected area are fleeing, fearing fresh waves of attacks.
As at the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
Earlier on Tuesday, various news outlets reported the deaths of several military personnel in a separate, unconfirmed clash with bandits along a highway in Zamfara State.
According to sources, the fallen included an officer, Lieutenant Isma’il Yahya.
In another related development, terrorists invaded Tofa village, reportedly killing more than 15 residents.
Tofa, located in Magami district of Gusau Local Government Area in Zamfara, has suffered repeatedly from similar bandit assaults.
Close to Gusau, the state capital, the village is said to be largely deserted, as residents fled after failing to meet the levies demanded by bandits, coupled with a lack of adequate security.
“The bandits on Sunday attacked the community; they ambushed the troops and killed many of them. The families of the dead soldiers have been informed, but the army has been silent on the incident.
“In Tofa, over 15 people were massacred, many others were injured, and some were nowhere to be found,” a source said.
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