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Bandits have killed at least 10 people and kidnapped 40 others during a raid on Tofa town in Sokoto State.
The attack happened on Sunday in Rabah District, according to a report prepared for the United Nations (UN) and seen by AFP on Monday.
A Tofa resident, Hadiyyatullahi Hamisu, confirmed the death and kidnapping figures, saying the attackers also looted large numbers of livestock.
The report blamed the attack on bandits loyal to Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader from neighbouring Zamfara State.
Rabah District borders Zamfara, where armed gangs operate from forest camps across parts of northwestern and central Nigeria.
Police in Sokoto did not respond to AFP’s request for comment.
Bandits operating in the region commonly raid communities, kidnap residents for ransom and impose illegal taxes on farmers and miners.
The UN report said kidnappings remain a major source of revenue for the gangs, while deadly attacks help them intimidate communities and strengthen their control. It warned that the latest attack could also “disrupt humanitarian activities” because of the increased security risks.
Northwestern Nigeria continues to face attacks from both bandits and terrorist groups that have spread from northeastern strongholds.
Last month, about 30 Muslim worshippers were killed when suspected terrorists attacked Ungushi town in Sokoto State during Friday prayers, according to local officials.
