At least 44 civilians were tragically killed in a brutal attack on a mosque in Niger Republic during the sacred Friday prayers, in what is believed to be an assault by jihadist militants. The attack occurred in the southwestern region of the country, as worshippers gathered for their weekly congregational prayer.
According to local authorities, a group of heavily armed militants launched a surprise assault on the mosque in the town of Banibangou, in the Tillabéri region, during the peak of the Friday prayer service. Witnesses report that the attackers opened fire on the worshippers, indiscriminately killing those inside and outside the mosque.
The tragic loss of life has shocked the nation, with Niger’s government and various international bodies condemning the violence. President Mohamed Bazoum expressed his deep sorrow for the victims and their families, offering condolences to the bereaved. He also reaffirmed his commitment to combating terrorism and extremism in the country, which has seen rising attacks by jihadist groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
"Such acts of violence, especially against innocent civilians seeking peace in a place of worship, are an affront to our shared humanity," said President Bazoum in a statement. "We will not rest until those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice."
In response to the attack, Niger’s security forces have launched operations in the region to pursue the perpetrators and secure the area. However, the threat of jihadist violence in Niger has been growing in recent years, exacerbated by the broader Sahel region's instability. Neighboring countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have all faced increasing attacks from extremist groups that target civilians and security forces alike.
International leaders, including the United Nations and the African Union, have condemned the attack and pledged support to Niger in its fight against terrorism. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, expressed his solidarity with the people of Niger, calling the attack a "shocking violation of the right to life and religious freedom.”
Local communities in the region are reeling from the devastating loss, with many struggling to understand the motive behind the attack. The violence has left the nation grieving and in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, particularly for those who have lost loved ones in the assault.
This tragic attack underscores the continuing threats posed by extremist groups in the Sahel, and calls for renewed regional and international efforts to address the growing violence. The government of Niger has vowed to intensify its efforts to eradicate jihadist groups and restore peace and security to its citizens.