Fresh Kidnappings in Niger State: 20 Farmers Taken Amid Rice Harvest

A wave of fear has gripped Niger State after 20 farmers, including pregnant women and children, were abducted by armed bandits during routine rice harvesting in Shiroro Local Government Area.

The incident occurred just five days after more than 300 students and staff of St Mary Catholic School were kidnapped in Agwara.

Residents reported that the attackers struck on Wednesday afternoon in Unguwan-Kawo, Erena Ward, targeting farmers returning to the field for late-season harvesting.

According to a resident who requested anonymity, the victims were seized approximately 500 metres from Erena town, where a military camp is located. The farmers were ambushed and forced into vehicles by the gunmen.

The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the incident was being verified.

This new attack has heightened anxiety in the state, which is still recovering from the mass abduction at St Mary Secondary and Primary School in Papiri community.

During that incident, armed men stormed the school, forcing students, pupils, and staff into waiting vehicles and motorcycles, causing panic among teachers and learners.

On Sunday, school authorities reported that at least 50 abducted persons had returned, but the state remains on high alert as bandit activity continues.