Gunfire shattered the calm of a quiet farming settlement at dusk. Panic spread instantly. Armed men rode into Baidi village and opened fire without warning. Screams followed. People scattered in all directions. By the end of the raid, Lakurawa Kill Six. Soon after, Nigeria’s military struck back. Troops dismantled terror cells linked to the attackers. At the same time, Military Rescues 62 Hostage from the forest hideouts. Together, the killings, the counteroffensive, and the rescue defined a brutal turning point in Sokoto’s worsening security crisis.
On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in Baidi village, Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Nigeria, suspected Lakurawa fighters carried out a coordinated night attack. The assailants arrived on motorcycles and fired repeatedly into the community. As a result, six villagers lost their lives. Shortly afterward, security forces launched operations across Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, targeting the same terror network responsible for the violence. Read also Kogi Deploys Advanced Drones for Security Monitoring
Deadly Bloodshed in Sokoto as Lakurawa Kill Six
Residents said the attack began suddenly. First came the sound of engines. Then gunshots rang out. Families rushed outside in confusion. Many ran toward nearby bushes. Others fled into the darkness. Unfortunately, six villagers could not escape.
Community leaders later confirmed the deaths. They identified the victims as farmers and traders who had lived peacefully in the area for years. Meanwhile, survivors described scenes of chaos. Some homes were abandoned overnight. Others suffered damage during the escape.
According to local accounts, the attackers belonged to the Lakurawa group. This faction has operated in border communities for several years. Moreover, residents linked the assault to earlier threats. They said the group had issued warnings demanding compliance with imposed rules.
After the attack, families prepared the bodies for burial. Funeral prayers followed quickly, in line with Islamic traditions. Grief spread across Baidi village. At the same time, fear deepened in surrounding settlements. You may have missed this information Gunmen Storm Plateau Mining Site, Kill Seven Miners in Night Attack
The Lakurawa Network and Its Growing Reach
The Lakurawa are not ordinary criminals. Instead, analysts describe them as a militant network with ideological and regional links. They operate across forest corridors stretching from Sokoto into Kebbi and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Over time, the group expanded its influence. Initially, some locals viewed them as self-styled protectors. However, their tactics soon turned violent. They imposed strict controls. They punished dissent. They abducted residents.
As a result, entire communities now live under pressure. Farmers avoid distant fields. Traders close early. Parents restrict children’s movement. Therefore, economic life has slowed in many rural areas.
Security experts note that the group thrives in isolated zones. Dense forests provide cover. Porous borders allow quick movement. Meanwhile, limited patrols create opportunity. These conditions have allowed the Lakurawa to entrench themselves. Many people are reacting to this Delta Police Nab 10 Suspected Kidnappers, Armed Robbers
Immediate Military Response After the Baidi Killings
Following reports from Baidi village, the Nigerian military acted quickly. Under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops mobilised across the northwest. First, intelligence units analysed movement patterns. Next, ground forces deployed to suspected locations.
In Kebbi State, soldiers advanced toward border routes often used by armed groups. During the operation, troops engaged suspected fighters near rural corridors. Two suspects were neutralised. Additionally, motorcycles used for attacks were recovered.
This action disrupted movement routes. Consequently, fighters lost access to key escape paths. Military officials described the encounter as strategic and deliberate.
Military Destroys Terror Cells Across Multiple States
The counteroffensive did not stop in Kebbi. Meanwhile, another unit pushed into forest zones in Zamfara State. These areas had long served as hideouts for armed groups.
Troops advanced carefully. They secured entry points. They searched makeshift camps. As a result, several terror cells were dismantled. Supplies were seized. Structures were destroyed.
According to military briefings, the operation relied heavily on actionable intelligence. Local informants provided guidance. Therefore, soldiers avoided civilian settlements while targeting specific hideouts.
This approach reduced collateral damage. It also increased precision. Military leaders later praised cooperation between communities and security forces.
Military Rescues 62 Hostages From Forest Captivity
During the Zamfara operation, troops made a critical discovery. Deep inside the forest, soldiers located a holding site for abducted victims. Guards fled as troops approached.
In total, the military rescued 62 hostages. The victims included men, women, and youths. Some had spent weeks in captivity. Others showed signs of exhaustion and fear.
Immediately, troops secured the area. Medical teams assessed the victims. Food and water were provided. Shortly afterward, arrangements began for reunification with families.
This rescue marked one of the most significant breakthroughs in recent months. Moreover, it sent a strong signal to armed groups operating in the region.
Human Impact: Communities Caught Between Fear and Hope
For residents of Baidi village, the attack left deep scars. Families mourned their dead. Children remained indoors. Nighttime silence became tense.
However, news of the hostage rescue brought cautious relief. Many villagers described mixed emotions. Grief remained heavy. Yet hope resurfaced.
Local leaders urged residents to remain vigilant. They encouraged cooperation with security agencies. At the same time, they appealed for permanent protection.
Security Challenges Facing Sokoto and the Northwest
Sokoto State sits near international borders. This location creates unique security challenges. Armed groups move across boundaries with ease. Therefore, enforcement becomes complex.
Additionally, the region’s terrain favors concealment. Forests stretch across wide areas. Roads remain limited. As a result, response times can lag without forward deployment.
Experts argue that sustained presence is essential. Short-term operations help. However, long-term stability requires consistent patrols and intelligence sharing.
Expert Analysis on the Path Forward
Security analysts stress that military force alone will not end the crisis. Instead, they recommend a combined strategy. This includes surveillance, economic development, and community trust.
Youth unemployment remains a key issue. Without opportunity, recruitment becomes easier. Therefore, experts urge investment in rural livelihoods.
At the same time, border monitoring must improve. Technology, joint patrols, and regional cooperation can reduce infiltration.
Government and Military Commitments
Military officials described the recent operations as part of a broader plan. According to spokespersons, pressure on terror networks will continue.
Authorities also called on citizens to share credible information. They emphasized that community tips played a vital role in recent successes.
Officials promised continued engagement with local leaders. As a result, dialogue channels remain open.
What Lies Ahead for Affected Communities
The Baidi killings exposed painful vulnerabilities. Yet the rescue of 62 hostages showed what coordinated action can achieve.
Going forward, residents want safety. They want to farm freely. They want children to sleep without fear. Therefore, sustained security presence remains critical.
Sokoto now stands at a crossroads. Violence has tested resilience. However, decisive action has restored some confidence. Whether peace holds will depend on consistency, vigilance, and trust.
Sources
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