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‎BY AHMED AKANBI

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‎The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has condemned the attack on Kpenya Mosque and the villages of Gidan-Zana and Kpenya in Dekara District, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

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‎In a statement, signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, the Forum described the assault of Friday, August 22, 2026 as barbaric and cowardly.

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‎The attack reportedly led to the abduction of hundreds of worshippers and residents, with some persons killed.

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‎The NSF commiserated with the government and people of Niger State, and with families of those kidnapped and killed.

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‎“I pray to Almighty Allah to grant the departed eternal rest and to grant their loved ones the fortitude to bear this painful loss,” Yar’Adua said.

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‎The Forum noted that targeting innocent worshippers and defenseless rural communities is “an attack on our shared humanity and faith.”

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‎It also expressed concern over reports of landmines being planted and further abductions allegedly being used as bargaining chips.

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‎The Northern Senators urged the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Service, DSS and other security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted persons.

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‎It further called on the Federal Government to provide urgent relief, medical support and enhanced security to affected communities in Borgu Local Government Area and other border areas.

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‎The NSF also demanded a comprehensive review of the security architecture in Niger State and the entire North Central region to prevent a recurrence.

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‎“We reaffirm our commitment to work with the Presidency and state governments to restore peace, protect lives, and uphold the dignity of our people across Northern Nigeria and the country at large,” the statement added.

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