Panic spread across Mararaba in Nasarawa State on Wednesday morning after armed bandits stormed the Aso Pada area.
The attackers moved into Welder Junction behind Aso Secondary School and carried out a violent raid that left several people dead and many others injured, although the exact number of casualties is still not clear.
Residents said the attackers used cutlasses and other dangerous weapons as they attacked people in the area. The violence forced many families to flee their homes, leaving confusion and fear across the community.
The attack happened at the same time as the All Progressives Congress North Central Zonal Congress was taking place in Lafia, hosted by Governor Abdullahi Sule. The closeness of the attack to such a major political gathering has raised serious concerns about security in the state.
As the situation worsened, security presence increased in the area. Witnesses reported seeing a convoy of more than 20 vehicles escorting APC governors and party leaders from across the North Central zone on their way to Lafia.
Families rushed to schools nearby to take their children to safety. Many students were left stranded and crying as the chaos unfolded around them.
At the time of reporting, police and community leaders had not released any official statement. Messages sent to authorities, including through WhatsApp, had not yet received a response.
