10 feared dead as rival bandit groups clash at naming ceremony in Katsina

At least 10 people have lost their lives following a violent clash between two rival bandit groups during a naming ceremony in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared the update on his X handle on Wednesday, the incident occurred on Monday evening at Gidan Mai Aure, near Sayaya village.

The confrontation reportedly escalated into heavy gunfire, causing panic among residents and mourners who had gathered for the ceremony.

According to him, the fight broke out between a gang led by Saimaila of Salihawa village and another group headed by Muhammadu from Maharba village.

Eyewitnesses told Zagazola that tension had been growing between the two factions over control of territory.

“Trouble started when Muhammadu and his men stormed the naming ceremony, leading to a bloody shootout.

“By the end of the violence, Saimaila and nine of his followers were killed,” Makama wrote.