Popular Nigerian Governor Narrowly Escapes Death After Terrorists Open Fire on His Convoy
Niger State Governor Umaru Bago narrowly escaped a potential tragedy after his convoy reportedly came under fire from terrorists in the Bangi-Igade axis of Niger State.
The incident occurred last Sunday when the governor’s team, conducting a tour of local communities, mistakenly strayed into a known bandit enclave, sources confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES.
The governor and his entourage had been inspecting development projects in Niger North Senatorial District, including a five-kilometer road in Igade and plans to rehabilitate health centers in the region. While returning to Kontagora, they reportedly lost their way and found themselves in the Bangi-Igade area, a zone notorious for terrorist activity.
The Ambush
According to multiple sources, the convoy realized the danger when security operatives in the team noticed unusual signs in the area and recommended an immediate retreat. As the convoy attempted to turn back, armed terrorists opened fire on them.
Security forces accompanying the governor reportedly engaged the attackers in a gunfight, overpowering them and forcing the terrorists to retreat into the surrounding forest. Unconfirmed reports claim that several of the terrorists were killed during the exchange.
The Bangi-Igade region has been plagued by frequent attacks in recent months. In October, three locals were killed by terrorists on the Bangi-Kotonkoro road, and a police officer lost his life in a separate clash. In November, seven farmers were murdered, and terrorists set ablaze 50 bags of maize in Bangi.
Government Denial
Despite eyewitness accounts and media reports, the Niger State government has denied any attack on the governor’s convoy. Ibrahim Bologi, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bago, described the reports as “fake news,” insisting that the governor’s tour of the Niger North Senatorial District had been peaceful and without incident.
“The convoy of the farmer-governor has been having a smooth tour of ongoing projects across the district since last week,” Bologi said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Journalist Intimidated
The incident was initially reported by Prestige FM in Minna. However, following the broadcast, operatives of the State Security Services (SSS) raided the station, seeking the journalist who broke the story, Mustapha Bina. Though Mr. Bina was not found during the raid, he was later summoned by the SSS for questioning.
Speaking to PREMIUM TIMES, Mr. Bina disclosed that he was interrogated for hours and pressured to reveal his sources. He described the ordeal as “demoralizing” but maintained his journalistic integrity by refusing to divulge any confidential information.
Escalating Insecurity in Niger State
This latest incident highlights the growing insecurity in Niger State, where terrorist groups have continued to operate with impunity, disrupting local economies and endangering lives. Despite government efforts to combat terrorism, the Bangi-Igade area remains a hotspot, raising questions about the adequacy of security measures in the region.
While Governor Bago has pledged to bring development and stability to affected communities, incidents like this underscore the persistent threat posed by armed groups and the urgent need for enhanced security interventions.
