Suspected bandits have reportedly set ablaze a primary school in Dekara town, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, despite allegedly collecting a ₦10 million levy from communities in the area, Peak Newspaper reports.
The attack has sparked fresh concerns among residents over the continued activities of armed groups in parts of Niger State, where communities have faced repeated threats, extortion, kidnapping and attacks by criminal elements.
According to reports, the bandits had allegedly imposed a financial demand on communities in the area, and after receiving the payment, they still attacked the town and destroyed the school facility.
Residents expressed disappointment and fear over the development, questioning why communities that complied with the demands of the attackers were still targeted.
The destruction of the school has raised concerns over the impact of insecurity on education, with many communities in affected areas already struggling with disruptions caused by violence and displacement.
Security authorities have continued operations against bandit groups operating in Niger State and other parts of the North-West, while residents have called for increased protection and urgent action to end attacks on vulnerable communities.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the activities of armed criminal groups who have continued to threaten rural communities through attacks, abductions and illegal levies.
