Residents of Dekara town in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State have been left in shock after suspected bandits reportedly burnt down a primary school despite allegedly collecting a N10 million levy from communities in the area.
The attackers reportedly set Central Primary School, Dekara, ablaze during a raid on the town on Wednesday, raising fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of the state.
According to a resident who spoke anonymously, the bandits emerged from the Kainji Lake National Park before invading the community.
He disclosed that communities in Dekara District had recently raised and paid the N10 million demanded by the bandits after they threatened to attack if the money was not paid.
“The bandits imposed a N10 million levy on communities in the district. The money was paid because they threatened to attack us if we failed to comply. They assured us we would be allowed to remain in our communities without further attacks,” the resident said.
“Despite receiving the money, they still attacked the district headquarters and burnt down the primary school.”
Meanwhile, suspected bandits also launched fresh attacks on Dnakau, Lanta and Unguwan Kawo communities in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Residents said one person, identified as Emma from Bagna community, was shot during the attacks, while another victim, Moses Joseph of Unguwan Kawo, was abducted.
As of the time of filing this report, the Niger State Police Command had yet to comment on the incidents despite efforts to obtain an official reaction.
