National SecurityNewsNigeriaBreaking: Community in Niger Flee When Soldiers Pull Out After Deadly Ambush 

Fear and uncertainty grip a community in Niger State, Nigeria, following the withdrawal of military troops stationed there. This comes two days after a deadly ambush on a military patrol that left several soldiers dead.

The deadly ambush on Tuesday evening, targeted a convoy of military vehicles travelling near the town of Allawa. Insurgents, believed to be affiliated with a local militant group, launched a coordinated attack using small arms fire and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), resulting in casualties among the military personnel.

Residents woke up on Thursday morning to find soldiers dismantling their tents and preparing to leave the community.

The departure of the troops caused panic among the locals who relied on their presence for security. The community had been a target of attacks by unidentified armed groups in recent months. The military deployment, though recent, had provided a sense of safety for residents.

The decision of the troops to pull back caused families to hastily pack their belongings and flee the town, seeking refuge in neighbouring communities perceived to be safer.

“Hundreds of us have left our communities already, said one resident. “We cannot take Pandogari road because it is not safe. So, we are moving to either Erena, Gwada, Kuta or Zumba.”

“From Allawa to Erena which is the only exit road for us is at least 42km and we are trekking because there are no vehicles to convey us. We have old people among us. Many people left their homes as early as 4:00 a.m. before early morning prayers. We cannot wait to be killed by these heartless bandits and Boko Haram.”

The military authorities have not issued a statement about the troop movement or the security situation in the affected community.