The assailants struck in an area where the army is engaged in combatting criminal factions.

Adding to the grim toll, an air force helicopter engaged in rescuing the wounded crashed on Monday morning. Although specific details about the fate of the crew and passengers were not provided, the incident occurred in the same region where the military is actively combating criminal groups.

Edward Gabkwet, spokesperson for the air force, confirmed the incident, stating that the MI-171 helicopter crashed near Chukuba village, situated within the Shiroro local government area. The unfortunate crash further highlights the perilous circumstances faced by security forces in their efforts to quell criminal activities.

Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa, witnesses alarming regularity in attacks and kidnappings perpetrated by criminal elements often referred to as "bandits." These incidents are particularly rampant in the northwest and central regions.

Observers and experts have pointed to a combination of factors, including impunity, inadequate security measures, and a limited government presence, as contributing to the continued escalation of violence. The volatile situation is further exacerbated by last month's coup in neighboring Niger, which has raised concerns among Western officials and regional observers.

In response to the turmoil, the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, has sanctioned the deployment of a "standby force to restore constitutional order" in Niger. However, specific details about the composition and timeline of this force are yet to be divulged. ECOWAS leaders remain committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution to the crisis despite these intensified security measures.

The attacks come as Nigeria is facing a growing security crisis. In addition to the violence in the northwest and central regions, the country is also grappling with a wave of attacks by Boko Haram and other extremist groups in the northeast.

The security situation in Nigeria has deteriorated significantly in recent years. The government has been unable to effectively combat the various armed groups operating in the country, and the violence has displaced millions of people.

The attacks have also had a significant economic impact on Nigeria. The country's tourism industry has been decimated, and businesses have been forced to close in areas that are considered to be unsafe.

The government has pledged to do more to address the security crisis, but it remains to be seen whether it will be able to succeed. The violence is a major threat to Nigeria's stability and prosperity, and it is essential that the government take urgent action to address it. (ILKHA)