Tension and outrage have enveloped Dankakah community in Gatawa District, Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, following a brutal night attack by suspected bandits that left residents traumatized and a young woman reportedly r@ped by a group of eight armed men.
The disturbing incident occurred on Tuesday night, when the victim, said to be in her early twenties, was returning from Unguwar Samada. According to eyewitnesses, she was accosted and dragged into the bush by the attackers, who took turns assaulting her before escaping into the night.
Frequent Attacks and Rising Insecurity
Residents of Dankakah and surrounding villages have expressed deep frustration over the frequent attacks in the area, lamenting the lack of effective security presence or meaningful government intervention.
A local youth leader who spoke anonymously described the situation as “a living nightmare.”
“These attacks have become part of our lives now. Every week we hear gunshots, people are kidnapped, and women can’t walk freely. We live in fear day and night,” he said.
He added that the community has repeatedly called on security agencies for help, but little has changed.
Calls for Government and Security Response
Following the latest incident, community elders and women groups in Dankakah are demanding urgent intervention from both the Sokoto State Government and federal authorities to restore peace and protect vulnerable residents.
According to them, the constant terror unleashed by armed groups has crippled farming, trade, and social life in the district, leaving many displaced or living in fear.
“We are tired of crying for help with no response,” said a resident. “Our daughters and wives are no longer safe. We need protection — not promises.”
Human Rights Concerns and Gender-Based Violence
The r@pe case has once again highlighted the growing cases of gender-based violence in conflict-prone areas across Northern Nigeria. Civil society groups have condemned the attack, calling for justice for the victim and stronger action to safeguard women and girls.
A Sokoto-based rights advocate urged the authorities to take decisive action:
“Women in rural communities are increasingly becoming targets of horrific violence. The government must treat this as an emergency — both for security and for women’s rights.”
Government Yet to React
As of the time of this report, no official statement has been issued by either the Sokoto State Police Command or the state government regarding the incident. Residents, however, insist that visible action and consistent patrols are urgently needed to prevent further attacks.
