Residents of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State are increasingly fleeing their homes as persistent attacks by armed groups continue to create fear and uncertainty across communities in the area.
The latest development was disclosed by Murtala Haliru Dantoro, the African Democratic Congress candidate for the Borgu/Agwara Federal Constituency, who raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation during a press conference.
Dantoro said some residents were now abandoning their ancestral homes and crossing into the neighbouring Republic of Benin in search of safety. He described the situation as a serious humanitarian and national security concern, warning that continued attacks could lead to further displacement if urgent action is not taken.
According to him, communities across the Borgu Emirate have been affected by killings, kidnappings and displacement, while restrictions on farming and movement have made it increasingly difficult for residents to sustain their livelihoods.
“We are not asking to be rescued after the fact. We are asking for security before the fact,” Dantoro said, arguing that residents should not have to wait until an attack occurs before security agencies respond.
He called on President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to establish a permanent and sustained security presence in Borgu, rather than relying mainly on responses after attacks have already taken place.
The call comes against the backdrop of repeated violence in the local government area throughout 2026. In January, attacks in Borgu and neighbouring Agwara reportedly left more than 40 people dead, while several others were abducted and residents began fleeing communities because of fears of further attacks.
In February, suspected bandits also attacked Tungan-Makeri and Konkoso communities in Borgu. Six people were reportedly killed, several houses were destroyed and a police station was burnt. Residents said the attackers moved through the area in large numbers on motorcycles, forcing families to flee to neighbouring communities and bush areas.
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