African Union, Somalia condemn deadly Nigeria attack, demand release of abductees

The African Union and Somalia issued strong condemnations Monday following a brutal attack in Nigeria's northwestern Zamfara state that left at least 50 civilians dead and numerous women and children abducted. The assault, carried out by armed groups locally known as bandits, began Thursday night and continued into Friday morning as attackers on motorcycles set fire to buildings and shot residents fleeing the village of Tungan Dutse.

AU Condemnation and Call for Action

AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed the bloc's full solidarity with Nigeria, offering "heartfelt" condolences while unequivocally rejecting terrorism and violent extremism against civilians. The AU statement characterized such attacks as grave human rights violations and serious threats to regional peace and security. Youssouf demanded the "immediate, safe, and unconditional" release of all abducted women and children, urging stronger coordinated action to protect civilians and prevent future atrocities while reaffirming the AU's unwavering support for Nigeria's security efforts.

Somalia's Solidarity

In a separate statement, Somalia's Foreign Ministry voiced solidarity with the Nigerian government and people, extending condolences to victims' families. Mogadishu called for the "immediate and unconditional" release of all abductees and expressed support for Nigeria's efforts to bring perpetrators to justice. "Africa must remain united against terrorism and in the protection of civilians," the ministry emphasized, highlighting the continental dimensions of the security challenge.

Persistent Insecurity in Northwest Nigeria

The Zamfara attack underscores Nigeria's ongoing struggle with multifaceted security threats. The northwest region has been plagued by bandit violence involving kidnapping for ransom, mass abductions, and killings that have displaced thousands and created a persistent climate of fear. Despite government troop deployments and international partnerships—including technical support and intelligence sharing with the United States—authorities continue grappling with overlapping threats from armed criminal gangs and insurgent groups across vast and poorly governed territories.