Bandits instruct residents of Wushishi estate in Niger to either vacate or face death
Suspected bandits have issued an ultimatum to the residents of M.I Wushishi Estate in Minna, the capital of Niger State, demanding that they vacate their homes or face death. These alleged bandits, who are thought to be illegal miners, launched their attack while many of the male residents were away at work, targeting and vandalizing vehicles and breaking windows.
A local resident, who requested to remain anonymous, revealed on Monday that the assault occurred after community members had reported the illegal miners’ activities to the neighborhood police station. The resident explained, “The individuals we believe to be miners have given the residents of M.I Wushishi Estate an ultimatum to leave or be killed. They carried out their attack in broad daylight, damaging numerous cars and smashing windows.”
He continued, “The attack followed our report to the police about the illegal miners causing havoc in our neighborhood. These individuals warned us of their intentions and then proceeded to execute their threat. The assault took place after most of the men had left for work, affecting many high-ranking civil servants, including directors and permanent secretaries, who reside in the estate.”
He added, “I am aware that several people have already fled the estate out of fear for their safety. It seems there is no safe place in the state, as we are constantly threatened by either bandits, terrorists, or these hoodlums and miners. Where is the government in all of this?”
In response to the incident, Niger State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attack but stated that calm had been restored. “On September 2, 2024, around 2:00 PM, we received reports of a disturbance involving suspected illegal miners and thugs attacking properties at M.I Wushishi Estate, Minna. Police patrol teams, led by the DPO Maitumbi, intervened and managed to disperse the attackers. During the clash, one individual among the attackers was killed by the bandits and his body was taken to the general hospital morgue. Normalcy has since returned to the area, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators. Patrols have been increased to prevent further incidents,” Abiodun stated.
