19 kidnapped as bandits strike in Niger community 

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have reportedly kidnapped nineteen people from Kutunku Village in Wushishi Local Government Area of Niger State.

It was gathered that the gunmen stormed the community in the early hours of Monday, shooting sporadically to scare villagers.

Confirming the attack to Daily Trust, a source stated that the gunmen beat up residents during the operation.

The source added that a total of 11 males and eight females were among those who were abducted by the gunmen.

According to the source, two of the abducted females were to be married off this weekend.

He added that bandits have not communicated to the families of the abducted persons.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun could not be reached for comment as at the time of this report.

Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, on Monday charged Nigerians to stop beating the drum of war as it not something anyone should wish for.

Abubakar further stated that the statement of some Nigerians has stirred reactions that led to the loss of lives and property over time.

He added that the unregulated statement of the Federal Government on social media also stirs avoidable conflicts.

The monarch urged traditional and religious leaders to educate and restrain followers from fuelling violence with their speeches.