Incident occurred in rural community on Wednesday as local authorities intensify security patrols in affected areas

Armed men attacked a farming community in Sokoto State on Wednesday, killing four people and abducting at least twelve others. The incident took place in a rural area, with residents confirming the loss of life and multiple kidnappings during the raid.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the village early in the morning while farmers were working on their farmlands. The gunmen reportedly shot sporadically, leading to the deaths of four individuals before seizing twelve others and fleeing towards an unknown location. The families of those abducted have expressed deep concern for their safety, calling on security agencies to intervene urgently.

Attacks by armed groups have become more frequent in parts of Sokoto State and across the North-West geopolitical zone, affecting farming activities and livelihoods. Many residents say they live in fear due to repeated threats from criminal elements targeting rural communities for ransom and supplies.

Local authorities confirmed the incident and stated that police and vigilante groups have launched search operations to rescue the kidnapped persons. A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “We are working with community leaders to gather intelligence and ensure the safe return of those taken.” Efforts are also underway to strengthen patrols in vulnerable villages.

Security experts warn that continued attacks could worsen food insecurity as farmers abandon their lands out of fear. Community leaders have called on both federal and state governments to provide more resources for security agencies and address the root causes of rural banditry.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/888334-bandits-kill-four-farmers-abduct-12-in-sokoto-attack.html

Landmark judgment comes as North-West faces rising attacks; rights groups urge fair trials and due process for all accused

A Katsina State High Court has sentenced a woman to death for trafficking ammunition to armed bandits operating in the region, marking a significant move in ongoing efforts to curb insecurity in the North-West. The verdict was delivered on Wednesday, 17 June, after the court found the accused guilty of supplying illegal ammunition to criminal groups destabilising rural communities.

According to court proceedings, security agencies apprehended the woman while she was allegedly transporting ammunition intended for bandit groups that have been responsible for repeated attacks and abductions in Katsina and neighbouring states. Investigators presented evidence linking her activities directly to recent violent incidents in the area, leading to her conviction under state anti-terrorism laws.

The sentencing comes at a time when residents across Katsina and other North-Western states are grappling with frequent raids by armed men targeting villages and major roads. Authorities say that cutting off supply chains—such as illicit arms trafficking—is critical to undermining the operational capacity of these criminal networks. The government has intensified crackdowns on suspected collaborators, warning that anyone found aiding bandits will face severe penalties.

While some community leaders praised the court’s decision as a deterrent against future crimes, rights advocates have called for transparent legal processes and urged authorities to ensure fair trials in all cases involving alleged banditry collaborators. “Justice must be done but also seen to be done,” one local activist said, stressing the importance of upholding defendants’ rights even amid heightened security concerns.

With this judgment, security agencies are expected to increase surveillance on suspected supply routes within Katsina State and beyond. Legal experts note that the outcome could set a precedent for similar cases currently pending in courts across the North-West zone.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/888333-katsina-court-sentences-woman-to-death-for-trafficking-ammunition-to-bandits.html

International Atomic Energy Agency reiterates support as Nigeria seeks to diversify energy sector through nuclear technology

Nigeria’s nuclear power ambitions are still active and progressing, according to the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi. Grossi made this known on Wednesday, stressing that despite global debates about nuclear energy and challenges faced by developing countries, Nigeria remains committed to its civilian nuclear programme.

Grossi spoke during a high-level meeting with Nigerian officials in Abuja, where he assured stakeholders that the IAEA continues to support Nigeria’s efforts towards developing nuclear power infrastructure. The meeting comes amid renewed calls for cleaner and more reliable energy sources as Nigeria confronts persistent electricity shortages and seeks alternatives to fossil fuels.

Nigeria has been pursuing a civilian nuclear energy programme for over a decade, aiming to diversify its energy mix and address chronic power supply deficits affecting millions nationwide. The project, which began with technical cooperation from the IAEA, has faced delays due to funding constraints and regulatory hurdles. However, the IAEA chief affirmed that the agency is working closely with Nigerian authorities to ensure compliance with international safety standards and secure technology transfer.

“Nigeria’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology is clear. We are here to provide every technical assistance necessary,” Grossi said during his engagement with government officials. He noted that several African countries are now exploring nuclear options due to growing demand for stable electricity supply.

While some experts have raised concerns about cost, safety, and waste management in developing economies like Nigeria, government officials maintain that nuclear power remains vital for national development. The Ministry of Power reiterated its plan to proceed with feasibility studies and regulatory groundwork before any construction commences.

With international backing from the IAEA and ongoing policy dialogue, Nigeria’s nuclear power drive is expected to remain a key part of its long-term strategy for energy security. Further consultations between Nigerian authorities and global partners are anticipated in coming months as the country moves closer towards making its first civilian nuclear plant a reality.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/888335-exclusive-nigerias-nuclear-power-programme-plans-still-alive-iaea-dg.html