Over 50 killed in northern Nigeria in suspected reprisal attacks

More than 50 people have been killed in an attack on northern Nigerian villages in Kaduna by armed men who also looted and burnt down homes on Monday.

According to multiple reports, the gunmen, numbering about 100, descended on the people of Kerawa, Zareyawa and Minda on Sunday dawn right after mosque prayers.

A Nigerian lawmaker, Zayyad Ibrahim, was quoted by Al Jazeera saying, “So far 50 bodies have been recovered but the figure is not conclusive and is very likely to rise as rescue efforts are still underway.”

Several others were wounded in the reported multiple attacks.

It is believed the attacks were in retaliation against what the gunmen believe have been cooperative efforts between Nigeria’s army and the villages.

Police say they are investigating the attacks.

Meanwhile, Kaduna governor, Nasir El-Rufai has reiterated his commitment to never negotiate on peace with gunmen in his state who have launched similar attacks in the past like the one on Monday.

Northern Nigeria has, in recent years, witnessed serious degrees of violence that have claimed thousands of lives. Culprits range from the terrorist group Boko Haram to cattle-rustling bandits.

Last month, over 20 were killed in a reprisal attack in the region.

All attempts at peacemaking, especially with the bandits have failed to end the loss of life and property in the northwestern states.