A federal lawmaker, Jafaru Mohammad Ali Damisa, narrowly survived an attack on Tuesday after suspected terrorists ambushed his convoy.
The incident happened along the Lumma–Babanna road in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attackers, described as “Lakurawa terrorists, locally referred to as bandits,” struck in the afternoon and caught the security team unprepared.
Security escorts immediately engaged the gunmen, but one soldier lost his life in the shoot-out.
Several others were severely injured and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Some political supporters also suffered injuries during the chaos.
Witnesses said the attackers fired continuously, damaging several vehicles in the convoy. At least “vandalised about 11 vehicles,” were left riddled with bullets before they were later removed from the scene.
Despite the heavy gunfire, Damisa managed to escape.
Reinforcement from troops at the Forward Operating Base in Babanna arrived shortly after receiving a distress call. Their presence forced the gunmen to retreat into the bush after a fierce gunfight.
However, at the time of this report, military personnel have increased patrols in the area as tension remains high among residents.
This attack has further raised concerns over insecurity in Niger State, especially around border communities frequently targeted by armed groups.