Sokoto Bandit Attacks Force Children and Families to Flee Into Bush and Schools
The right to survival of children in Sokoto State is under severe threat as renewed bandit attacks have forced residents of at least 21 villages to flee their homes, leaving thousands, including children, exposed to dangerous and inhumane living conditions.
Communities such as Gidan Kare, Kaware, Chabi, Dattabi, Janwake, Sha Rana, Darbekami, Gidan Sule, Kuruwa, Mahuta, and others have been repeatedly attacked, prompting mass displacement. Many families have escaped into nearby Tureta town and surrounding areas, while others have taken refuge in the bush at night to avoid being caught in further violence.
Reports indicate that over 1,000 displaced persons are currently sheltering in overcrowded classrooms at Abdulbaki Model Primary School in Tureta, where there is little or no access to humanitarian assistance. Children are sleeping on bare floors, exposed to harsh weather conditions, hunger, and psychological trauma.
A resident of Kuruwa village said repeated raids left families with no option but to flee. “We can no longer stay in our homes. Bandits attack repeatedly, and we had to run for our lives,” he said. Another villager from Gidan Kare added that gunshots are heard almost every night, forcing children to grow up in constant fear.
Women and vulnerable groups are among the worst affected. A pregnant woman from Hura Girke said she is currently sheltering in a school without adequate food or medical care, despite being close to childbirth. Mothers also report that children are struggling to eat and sleep safely due to overcrowding and insecurity.
Some displaced families said they now depend on relatives or hide in bushes when shelter is unavailable, further exposing children to risks such as illness, hunger, and potential attacks.
Local authorities have yet to respond to calls for intervention, as residents continue to appeal for urgent security measures. For many children in these communities, survival has become uncertain as violence continues to disrupt daily life and force families into deeper crisis.
