From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto
The funeral prayer for three gallant Nigerian soldiers who lost their lives to a suspected Improvised Explosive Device has been conducted in Sokoto State, as the state government pledged continued support for troops battling banditry in the North-West.
The soldiers died on Saturday, June 21, 2026, when an IED suspected to have been planted by bandits exploded under their vehicle during security operations in Isa Local Government Area, a border LGA notorious for bandit attacks.
According to military sources, the troops were on a clearance patrol to protect farming communities when the device detonated.
Their deaths have plunged families, colleagues, and residents of Isa into mourning.
Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, represented Gov. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto at the funeral.
He condoled with the Nigerian Army and the families of the deceased, while commending the soldiers’ sacrifice.
“They lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting the lives and property of the community from the threat of criminal elements.
“We pray that Allah forgives them, grants them Aljannatul Firdausi, and gives their families and the military the fortitude to bear this loss,” Gobir said.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies:
“The Sokoto State Government continues to stand with our security personnel in the fight against insurgents and bandits. We will keep providing the necessary support to ensure peace returns to our border communities.
Isa LGA lies along the Kamuku-Kuyambana forest belt that stretches into Zamfara State – a major hideout for bandit groups locally called “Yan bindiga.””
Recently, these gangs have shifted from cattle rustling and kidnapping to planting IEDs along military patrol routes to slow troop movement and inflict casualties.
The attack is the latest under Operation Fansan Yamma, the military’s joint task force covering Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna states.
Soldiers deployed in Isa, Sabon Birni, and Goronyo and other parts of the states are tasked with securing highways, protecting villages, and dismantling bandit camps in rugged, ungoverned terrain.
Since 2023, the Gov. Aliyu administration has increased funding for joint patrols and logistics for troops, while working with vigilante groups “Yan Sakai” and the State’s Community Watch Cotps’ operatives to complement military efforts.
The Deputy Governor’s presence at the funeral reflects the state’s policy of standing with security forces and bereaved families.
The bodies of the three soldiers were buried according to military rites after the funeral prayer.
Residents of the state have called for more patrol equipment and mine-detection gear to reduce future losses
