The Zamfara State Government has extended its heartfelt condolences to the people of Sauna Village in Talata Mafara Local Government Area following the recent bandit attack that claimed the lives of 26 people and left four others injured.
Deputy governor of Zamfara State, Alphaji Mani Malam Mummuni Masamar Mudi conveyed the government’s sympathy during a condolence visit to the affected community on Friday.
Addressing residents, the deputy governor reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating banditry across the state.
He stressed that the Zamfara State Government would never negotiate with terrorists, describing them as untrustworthy and undeserving of any form of dialogue.
He commended the courage, resilience, and patriotism displayed by members of the Sauna Vigilante Group, who confronted the attackers in a fierce gun battle and successfully forced them to retreat from the community.
As a gesture of appreciation and encouragement, the Deputy Governor donated ₦1 million to the vigilante group to support their operations and boost their morale. He further assured the community that the state government would provide assistance to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to the injured victims, in line with its established support programme
The deputy governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of those who lost their lives, asked Almighty Allah to grant their families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, and wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the District Head of Sauna, Alhaji Bello Musa Sauna, expressed appreciation to the Zamfara State Government for its swift response to the tragedy and for the Deputy Governor’s condolence visit. He also prayed for Allah’s continued guidance and protection for the state government and a safe journey back for the delegation.
The attack reportedly occurred on Wednesday when armed bandits attempted to invade Sauna Ward in Talata Mafara Local Government Area. The attackers were met with stiff resistance from members of the community vigilante group, forcing them to retreat. However, while fleeing, the bandits reportedly attacked innocent farmers working on their farmlands, killing several of them.
The deputy governor was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Garba Yandi; the Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, Captain Bala Muhammad Mai Riga (Rtd.), and other senior government officials