In a statement published on its official website on Sunday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said he "strongly condemns the heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks perpetrated on February 21, 2026, in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria," which "resulted in the killing of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children."
The African Union (AU) reported that it "unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations, particularly women and children," branding them "grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security, and stability."
Youssouf stated the union's "full solidarity with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria," extended "heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
He also emphasised the African Union's "unwavering support for Nigeria's efforts to address insecurity and restore lasting peace."
The Chairperson also demanded the "immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children," as well as "strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilian populations and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities," in accordance with the African Union's commitment to peace, security, and stability on the continent.
Bandits reportedly assaulted Zamfara State last Thursday night, killing at least 50 inhabitants of Dutsin Dan Ajiya hamlet in Anka Local Government Area. The victims' bodies were wrapped in white for a mass burial, according to a video posted on Saturday.
A resident claimed that the terrorists invaded the village with sophisticated weapons and closed all access roads to the settlement to prevent escape. "After blocking all the roads, the bandits started to shoot at sight, and the villagers ran helter-skelter," he said.
He went on: "After the attack, we realised that 30 people were killed; some were wounded, while several others are at large and nobody knows their whereabouts."
The raid reportedly lasted until early Friday morning, with many residents abducted during the invasion.
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