Six men were killed and three women injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Gwabro village, Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State. 

The device is suspected to have been planted by the Lakurawa terrorist group, which is reportedly active in Sokoto and Kebbi states.

A source explained that the explosion occurred on Sunday afternoon, during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, as victims were walking to a nearby village, Zurmuku, to pay traditional holiday visits. Unaware of the device, they likely triggered the explosion upon contact.

According to him, “They were simply unfortunate. These innocent victims were walking from Gwabro to the nearby Zurmuku community when they stumbled upon the device. Perhaps unaware of its nature, they may have touched it, which resulted in the explosion.”

Spokesperson of the Sokoto Police Command, ASP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the casualties. The injured women are receiving treatment at Tangaza General Hospital. 

According to local officials, the deceased have been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

The incident highlights growing concerns over the Lakurawa group’s presence and escalating threat in the region.