At least 44 people were killed and 13 others injured when gunmen attacked a mosque in southwestern Niger. The assault occurred on Friday in the village of Fonbita, located in the rural commune of Kokorou. Interior Minister Mohamed Toumba described the attack as a deliberate strike against civilians, adding that four of the injured remain in critical condition.
Toumba condemned the violence as a “cowardly and inhumane act” and promised swift action to pursue the attackers. He assured the public that authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the victims.
In response, the government declared a 72-hour period of national mourning starting Saturday. Flags will fly at half-mast across the country, and public events will be scaled down as the nation honors the victims.
Southwestern Niger, especially areas near the borders of Mali and Burkina Faso, has faced increasing violence in recent years. Armed groups have exploited instability to launch deadly attacks on villages and security forces. Despite ongoing efforts by the government and international partners, these regions remain vulnerable.
No group has claimed responsibility, but authorities have linked the assault to known armed groups operating in the region. The government has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation and take decisive measures to prevent further violence. This attack adds to the growing toll of civilian casualties in Niger, where communities continue to face persistent threats.