Authorities in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State have dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that armed men attacked a mosque in the area and killed an Imam and several worshippers.
The Chairman of the local government, Ayuba Hashimu, described the report as completely false and misleading.
“I do not know of any mosque that was attacked, let alone the killing of an Imam or worshippers. The report is simply untrue,” Hashimu said in a telephone interview on Sunday.
Corroborating his statement, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly representing the area, Aminu Boza, also refuted the claim.
“No mosque was attacked on Saturday. I have no idea where that story came from, but it is not correct,” Boza said.
The denial comes amid heightened concerns over insecurity following recent reports of abductions and killings in parts of the state.
In a separate incident, suspected bandits reportedly attacked Alkalije village in Yabo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, killing five residents, including a pregnant woman.
Alkalije, a border community under the Kilgori District, lies close to Silame Local Government Area and shares boundaries with parts of Kebbi State, an area known for frequent attacks by armed groups.
Security sources said troops and local security operatives had been deployed to the affected communities to prevent further attacks and restore calm.
Residents of the area have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to security agencies as authorities continue efforts to curb rising criminal activities in the region.
