Fresh intelligence has linked the recent abduction of schoolchildren in parts of Kebbi and Niger States to the killing of a notorious terror commander, Babangida, during Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes in Niger State.
A credible security source told the Nigerian Anchor that residents of communities along the riverside axis of Shiroro have been celebrating after confirmation of Babangida’s death.
According to the source, the slain commander was a key lieutenant to the feared bandits’ kingpin, Dogo Gideh.
“Babangida died on November 18 while receiving treatment for injuries sustained during an air interdiction mission at the outskirts of Kurebe community, where several terrorists were neutralised,” the source revealed.
The source added that the recent abductions were likely orchestrated by loyalists of the late commander as a retaliatory show of force, intended to reassert their relevance after suffering heavy losses from sustained military offensives.
NAN gathered that following Babangida’s death, community leaders from Kwaki, Buresidna, Chukuba, Buwidna, Kuchidna, Banda, Shalupe and other surrounding villages visited the Palleli home of Gideh’s mother on November 19, where she was seen mourning her son’s fallen ally.
A senior intelligence officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described Babangida’s death as “a significant blow” to the terror network but warned of possible reprisal attacks targeting vulnerable communities, schools, and security personnel.
“Security agencies are on heightened alert,” the officer said. “Operations have been intensified to prevent further attacks and ensure the safe rescue of abducted students.”
Residents in Shiroro expressed relief over the commander’s death, saying it had rekindled hope for reduced bandit activities in the area, which has been plagued by insecurity for years.
Military authorities assured that coordinated land and air operations would continue until the capabilities of terror groups are fully degraded across the region.
