Residents of Gwana District in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State have deserted their homes in large numbers after a violent bandit attack left two soldiers and a vigilante member dead.
The incident occurred around 4:32 pm on February 22, 2026. The attackers struck both the community and a base of the Joint Task Force.
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed that its Anti-Kidnapping Unit engaged the attackers in a gun battle. The police said seven suspected bandits were killed during the exchange. However, three residents were abducted in the process.
Following the attack, many families fled the area. They left behind their homes, farms, and businesses. Several residents moved to neighbouring states in search of safety. A photograph seen by DAILY POST showed villagers loading their belongings onto vehicles and motorcycles as they prepared to leave in fear.
In a letter addressed to Governor Bala Mohammed, the Public Relations Officer of the Gwana District Community Development Association, Comrade Muhammad Abubakar Futuk, described the situation as dire. He said the district has become “a shadow of fear and uncertainty” and called for urgent security intervention to protect lives and property.
He said the situation has become unbearable for residents. He added that fear now dominates daily life in the area. Farmers are unable to go to their fields, while traders have reduced movement. This has affected economic activities in the district. He also said the absence of adequate security has encouraged further attacks by bandits.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered more security personnel to be deployed to the area. The move is aimed at restoring order, protecting displaced residents, and preventing further attacks.
He assured that security agencies are intensifying intelligence efforts to track down the fleeing attackers and rescue those abducted.
