KEBBI, Nigeria — In the wake of a devastating attack on Mera village by the newly identified terror group Lakurawa, which claimed 17 lives, Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, made a significant visit to the area to extend his condolences and call for calm. The visit occurred on November 8 in the Augie Local Government Area, where the violent incident spurred a retaliatory assault on a nearby Fulani community.
Governor Idris sternly cautioned against such reprisals, stressing that his administration would rigorously enforce the law to prevent further lawlessness. “Engaging in revenge attacks contravenes the very principles of justice," he stated, reminding those gathered that international law shields vulnerable groups even in warfare scenarios.
Amidst his discussions, Idris committed to enhancing the security presence in the region by provisioning additional patrol vehicles to boost the morale and capabilities of the state's security personnel.
Addressing the distraught Fulani community at the District Head of Augie's palace, the governor reassured them of their protection under the law, emphasising their right to safety as Nigerian citizens. He also announced an N10 million donation to the community and promised more aid to alleviate the effects of the attack.
Rugga Hore-Mera, speaking for the Fulani community, shared the harrowing impact of the attack, which left three of his family members dead and many of their homes destroyed. He clarified that his community was not involved in the initial assault and expressed his own suffering from previous violence, highlighting the theft of his livestock by gunmen last year.
As tensions remain high, Governor Idris's intervention underscores the urgent need for peace and the importance of lawful conflict resolution, which aims to restore stability and trust among the affected communities.