By MOHAMMED DANBABA
Fear returned to a major transport corridor in Kaduna State on Tuesday night after suspected bandits launched a deadly attack on motorists along the Galadimawa–Tumburku Road in Giwa Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred around 8:40pm on December 16, left a commercial driver dead and several passengers traumatised, once again underscoring the deepening security crisis facing communities in the state.
Security sources confirmed that the armed men blocked the road under the cover of darkness before opening fire sporadically at passing vehicles, forcing motorists to stop. The attack caused panic among commuters travelling on the busy route, which links several rural communities and serves as a vital access road for farmers, traders, and inter-town transport operators.
Commercial Vehicle Targeted During the Attack
According to reports, the bandits specifically targeted a Volkswagen Golf vehicle conveying four passengers. The driver, whose identity had not been officially released at the time of filing this report, was hit by gunfire during the assault. He was rushed to a nearby hospital by good Samaritans and security operatives but was later confirmed dead.
The passengers in the vehicle were identified as Rabiu Lawal, 30; Binta Salisu, 40; Balkisu Yahaya, 30; and Karima Yusuf, 40. Despite the shock and confusion that followed the shooting, all four passengers were rescued alive and safely evacuated from the scene.
Security officials described their survival as “fortunate,” noting that similar attacks along highways in Kaduna and neighbouring states have often resulted in mass abductions or multiple fatalities.
Relatives Notified as Security Response Intensifies
Following confirmation of the driver’s death, his relatives were formally informed by the authorities. Community members described the loss as devastating, especially given the current economic hardship that has pushed many residents into commercial driving and night travel in search of daily income.
In response to the attack, troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, launched intensified operations across the area. Patrols were increased, while search-and-track efforts were activated to locate and apprehend the perpetrators.
Security sources said investigations into the incident are ongoing, with intelligence assets deployed to determine the movement patterns of the attackers and whether the group was responsible for previous assaults along the same corridor.
Kaduna Highways Remain Flashpoints of Violence
The latest incident adds to a growing list of violent attacks linked to bandit groups operating across Kaduna State. Major highways, particularly those connecting rural local governments, have increasingly become flashpoints for ambushes, robberies, and abductions.
Residents of Giwa LGA and surrounding communities say night travel has become extremely risky, yet unavoidable for many who rely on evening transport for business and family obligations. Commercial drivers, in particular, remain among the most vulnerable, often forced to choose between personal safety and economic survival.
“This road used to be safe,” a resident of the area told reporters. “Now, once it’s evening, everyone is afraid. But people still travel because there is no alternative.”
Calls for Stronger Protection and Community Vigilance
Following the attack, residents were advised to exercise heightened caution when travelling along the Galadimawa–Tumburku Road, especially after dusk. Security agencies urged the public to report any suspicious movements or gatherings promptly, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in combating highway attacks.
Local leaders and civil society groups renewed calls on the Kaduna State Government and federal security authorities to strengthen highway surveillance, deploy more checkpoints, and invest in intelligence-driven operations to dismantle bandit networks.
They also appealed for improved lighting, emergency response systems, and coordinated patrols along key transport routes to restore public confidence and reduce the frequency of such attacks.
A Grim Reminder of Nigeria’s Wider Insecurity Challenge
Beyond Kaduna State, the incident reflects a broader national challenge, as armed groups continue to exploit poorly monitored roads and rural terrain across parts of northern Nigeria. Despite ongoing military and police operations, commuters remain exposed, particularly in areas where bandits operate with familiarity of the landscape.
As families mourn the loss of another breadwinner, questions continue to mount over how quickly safety can be restored to Nigeria’s highways. For now, the Galadimawa–Tumburku Road joins a growing list of routes that symbolise both daily survival and the urgent need for lasting security solution.
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