Bandits Attack Mosque During Isha Prayers in Katsina Kill and Injure Worshippers
Suspected bandits attacked worshippers during Isha prayers on Thursday night in Matazu town, Katsina State, leaving several people dead and others injured. The gunmen reportedly stormed a mosque while prayers were ongoing, opening fire on those gathered. Security analyst Bakatsine shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), describing the incident as another sign of rising insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest. “Yesterday night, bandits attacked Matazu town in Katsina State, during Isha prayer, killing and injuring worshippers. Government must act urgently because the attacks on worshippers in the northwest region are becoming too frequent,” he wrote. As of the time of filing this report, authorities in Katsina State have not issued an official statement regarding the attack, and the number of casualties has yet to be confirmed. Residents say the area has witnessed repeated raids by armed groups in recent months, with little visible response from security agencies. The attack is part of a troubling trend in which bandits have increasingly targeted rural communities, schools, markets, and now, places of worship. Many in the region are calling for stronger government action and more effective community-based security measures to protect vulnerable populations. Local sources say tension remains high in the area, with some families too afraid to return to the mosque. Emergency response efforts are ongoing, but details remain sketchy as communication in the area is limited. The Matazu incident adds to growing concerns over the ability of authorities to contain the violence in the region, as well as the toll the ongoing insecurity is taking on daily life in northern Nigeria.