Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the deadly attack on Dangulbi community in Sokoto State that left at least 17 people dead.
The rights group expressed concern over the violence, noting that several of the victims had travelled to the community to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir with their families before they were killed during the raid.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Amnesty International said:
“The Nigerian authorities must urgently investigate this attack, ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice in fair proceedings, and take immediate steps to protect communities that remain at risk. The authorities must also provide effective support and assistance to survivors, displaced persons and families affected by the attack.”
Residents said heavily armed assailants riding motorcycles stormed the village on Sunday morning, shooting indiscriminately and causing panic as people fled for safety. Shops were reportedly looted during the attack, while many villagers escaped into nearby bushes.
Witnesses said the attackers arrived in large numbers after moving through neighbouring communities, catching residents off guard.
Among those killed were both locals and visitors who had returned home for the Sallah festivities. Reports indicated that some of the victims came from neighbouring areas in Zamfara and Sokoto states to celebrate with relatives.
Amnesty International described the incident as another sign of the worsening security challenges facing communities in the region. The organisation said repeated attacks have continued to claim lives, force families from their homes and disrupt economic activities.
The group stressed that no community should live under constant fear of violence and called on the government to take stronger action to prevent further attacks.
It also appealed for support for survivors and affected families while urging authorities to ensure justice for the victims and restore confidence in the safety of rural communities.
