Gunmen Kill Immigration Officer, Injure Colleague in Niger State Ambush

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news
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One officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) was killed and another seriously injured when unidentified gunmen ambushed a two-man surveillance patrol in Niger State, the service confirmed on Thursday.

The attack occurred at about 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, along the Tunga Taya–Woro axis near Woko village in Borgu Local Government Area.

The two personnel, both attached to the Wawa Control Post that monitors the frontier with the Republic of Benin, were carrying out routine surveillance when armed men struck.

In a statement issued by Service Public Relations Officer Deputy Comptroller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS identified the deceased as Assistant Superintendent of Immigration I (ASI I) I.U. Babangida.

His colleague, Inspector A.K. Musa, sustained serious injuriesβ€”including machete wounds according to the Niger State Commandβ€”but managed to escape and is receiving medical treatment. He is reported to be stable and responding well.

Babangida’s remains were recovered two days later in a burnt state. He was buried in accordance with Islamic rites. The service paid tribute to his sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty.

β€œThe Service condoles with the family, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased officer and wishes the injured personnel a speedy recovery, assuring both families of its continued support and assistance during this difficult period,” the statement said.

The NIS said it is working closely with the Niger State Government and other security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible β€œand ensure that they are brought to justice.”

Despite the loss, the service reaffirmed that the incident would not weaken its resolve to protect Nigeria’s borders or carry out its statutory responsibilities.

The Tunga Taya–Woro axis and surrounding border communities in Borgu have faced repeated security challenges.

The attack underscores the risks faced by immigration officers on the front lines of border management in one of the country’s more volatile corridors.

The Nigeria Immigration Service continues to honour the fallen officer while pressing for the perpetrators to face justice.

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