In Gombe State, over 6,850 individuals have been uprooted from their homes following brutal attacks conducted by bandits on the communities of Garin Galadima and its surroundings in the Pindiga Emirate of Akko Local Government Area.
These incidents transpired on January 23, 2026, leading to the flight of families from around 1,141 households comprising Garin Galadima, Lumbo, Shulto, among other villages, who sought refuge in safer locations.
The displaced individuals are currently taking shelter in various communities, including Pindiga, Tumu, Kashere, Kombani Isa, Lawanti, Tundu, and Tukulma, relying heavily on the assistance of relatives and local inhabitants for their basic needs.
Witnesses reported that numerous bandits invaded the region, traveling on motorcycles and armed with a variety of weapons.
The attackers reportedly looted shops, destroyed food supplies, set fire to homes, killed livestock, and fired their weapons indiscriminately, instilling fear among the populace.
"At least three individuals lost their lives, while numerous others were injured as people fled into the bushes to escape the onslaught," one resident recounted to our correspondent.
In response to this crisis, Abdullahi Haruna Abdullahi, Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), expressed grave concern over the humanitarian repercussions of these assaults.
"Together with NEMA and NEDC, we conducted a thorough assessment to gauge the extent of the damages and the number of persons affected. Our immediate goal is to provide displaced individuals with essential support, which encompasses bedding, food items, and temporary shelters," said Abdullahi.
He also mentioned that they are in the process of documenting the victims to facilitate subsequent aid initiatives.
"We are compiling information on the affected households to ensure that ample relief materials will be distributed. Additionally, we are coordinating with security forces to safeguard the communities and enable residents to return to their homes safely," he noted.
An official from the North East Development Commission (NEDC) reiterated the agency's commitment to assisting the victims.
"This situation is indeed distressing. NEDC is dedicated to collaborating with the state government and humanitarian organizations to alleviate the plight of the displaced persons and assist them in rebuilding their livelihoods," the official stated.
In the meantime, local leaders have urged both state and federal authorities to increase security personnel in the Pindiga region, cautioning that sustained attacks could severely disrupt agricultural and commercial activities crucial to the local economy.
"A permanent security presence is essential. Without it, our community members cannot return to their farms and engage in business activities," lamented a traditional chief.
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