“We Escaped Death by Seconds”—Man Recounts Chilling Encounter in Zamfara Bandit Ambush

A Nigerian traveler has shared a harrowing account of how he narrowly escaped death during a bandit ambush along a major highway in Zamfara State.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the man recounted the terrifying moment bandits opened fire on vehicles near Talata-Mafara. According to him, the attack occurred around 2 p.m., roughly 20 kilometers from the town.

“We escaped a bandit attack yesterday at around 2 p.m., 20km from Talata-Mafara,” he wrote. “The bus behind us, a Kaduna Line bus, wasn’t so lucky. The bandits sprayed bullets on oncoming vehicles without warning.”

While his vehicle managed to speed away unharmed, others caught in the ambush reportedly suffered gunfire and trauma. His post has since triggered an outpouring of concern and frustration online, with Nigerians lamenting the persistent insecurity plaguing northern roads.

See screenshot of the post:

Here are some reactions from users:

@Owolabilawd: “We’re enjoying the Muslim-Muslim ticket because religion is more important than governance to many.”

@Nna_Uwa: “I traveled this route in 2009 with no fear. It’s heartbreaking to see what political negligence has turned it into.”

@hammedolaide29: “Until Nigeria returns to regional government, these attacks will continue. Centralized security has failed.”

@ibrahimoloko: “May Allah protect us all. In these times, constant remembrance of God is our shield.”

@ogbeone: “Parents in the North need to be held responsible. This chaos starts from the home.”

@contractorwood: “Ignoring the almajiri crisis is what got us here—jobless youth are easy recruits.”

@Mr__Mson: “This wasn’t just a bandit attack—you narrowly escaped terrorists.”

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