Bago must account for lives lost in Niger State – Mahdi Shehu

Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu has rebuked Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago for his handling of the ongoing surge in violent incidents within the state. In a recent post on his X account, Shehu warned that Bago would ultimately be answerable for the lives lost while he has been in office. The commentator highlighted a series of deadly attacks that have taken place in various communities across Niger State in 2026, including a recent tragedy where 37 children were killed during a food distribution event allegedly overseen by officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Shehu described this incident as a "sad commentary of recurring tragedy in Niger State" and cited other attacks, such as the reported killing of 61 people in Shiroro Local Government Area in April and over 30 deaths in Borgu Local Government Area in August. He emphasized that violent incidents have been occurring nearly every week in the state, with the total number of fatalities reaching 1,058 between January 2024 and December 2025, according to data from the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) and the ACLED database.

Shehu accused the governor of prioritizing politics over addressing the state's security challenges, noting that Bago has been more focused on politicking, campaigning for re-election, and promoting the All Progressive Congress (APC) rather than ensuring the safety of Niger State residents. The commentator challenged Bago to consider the accountability he will face for the deaths that occurred during his tenure, as well as the mismanagement of funds meant for the impoverished population of Niger State.

Shehu stated that the governor would ultimately be held responsible for every soul lost and every misappropriated fund while in office.