Sokoto: At least 28 people, including the Chief Imam of Ungushi Izala Jumu'at Mosque, Imam Aliyu, were killed when armed men attacked the Ungushi community in Kebbe Local Government Area in northwestern Nigeria's Sokoto State, officials and residents said.

According to Anadolu Agency, the attack occurred early Monday amid renewed security concerns in Kebbe, where communities have faced threats from armed groups allegedly linked to the Lakurawa terrorist organisation. Ahmed Rufai, spokesperson for the Sokoto Police, confirmed the incident on Tuesday, stating that at least 28 bodies had been recovered following the attack.

Residents reported that the attackers invaded the community in the evening and opened fire on civilians. The victims included farmers, traders, religious leaders, and other members of the community. The attack has heightened fear in the community, with some families fleeing their homes amid reports that residents in neighboring areas had also been displaced.

The latest killings followed reports on Friday that a large number of armed men on motorcycles had entered parts of Kebbe, allegedly attacking residents, looting shops, and damaging property. In response, the Nigerian Army stated that its General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Maj. Gen. Bemgba Koughna, visited the Forward Operating Base in Kebbe to assess the security situation and reassure residents of the military's readiness to address the threats.

Koughna also met with community leaders and residents to review the security situation in the area. He announced that the army had adjusted its security measures to prevent further infiltration by terrorists and protect vulnerable communities. He assured residents that troops remain fully deployed, highly alert, and operationally focused on protecting lives and property.

The army commander emphasized the importance of community support, urging residents not to panic and to cooperate with security forces by sharing credible intelligence. He also encouraged residents to report suspicious movements and unfamiliar persons that could pose security threats.

Residents called for a sustained military presence and intelligence-led operations to prevent further attacks and restore confidence in affected communities. The attack has further heightened concerns over the spread of armed-group activity in parts of Sokoto State, where rural communities remain vulnerable to attacks, displacement, and disruption of livelihoods.