The House of Representatives has strongly condemned the armed ambush on the convoy of Jafaru Mohammed Ali, the lawmaker representing Borgu and Agwara Federal Constituency of Niger State, calling it a cowardly and tragic attack.
The incident reportedly happened on Tuesday afternoon along the Lumma–Babanna Road in Borgu Local Government Area — a dangerous corridor known for bandit attacks and cross-border movement of armed groups. The ambush occurred between 1pm and 2pm as the convoy approached Babanna, a community close to the Benin Republic border.
In a statement on Friday, the House Spokesman, Akin Rotimi, said the attack claimed the lives of several security personnel, left the lawmaker’s driver and aides injured, and damaged several vehicles in the convoy. Ali was said to be travelling for a constituency engagement at the time.
Part of the statement reads:
“The remote distance of the area of the attack further demonstrates the extent to which Honourable Members go to ensure constituency services reach every Nigerian, no matter how far or challenging the terrain.”
The House mourned the security operatives who were killed, extending condolences to their families, the affected security agencies, and the people of Niger State. It also wished the injured quick recovery and called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the attack, apprehend those responsible, and prevent a recurrence.
Lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to the safety of citizens and elected officials, and pledged continued legislative backing for the executive and security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other threats to national security.
Communities across Niger State — especially those along border routes — have faced increased attacks in recent months.
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On September 17, gunmen on motorbikes killed 22 villagers in the western part of the state during a baptism ceremony. The attack occurred in the Tillaberi area near Burkina Faso and Mali, where jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State operate. Fifteen people were killed at the ceremony in Takoubatt village, while seven others were shot dead on the outskirts shortly after.
Earlier in June, at least 17 soldiers were killed in a heavy gun battle with suspected bandits in Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area, after intelligence revealed that armed groups were advancing toward the area — a hotspot for kidnappings and cattle rustling.
