Humanitarian Worker Lydia Nwankwo Killed in Sokoto Attack

On October 6, 2026, Ms. Lydia Nwankwo, a humanitarian and field operations professional, was killed in an attack by suspected bandits in Shagari Local Government Area, Sokoto State. The incident occurred as she and her team were returning from field operations in Kajiji community.

Her sister, Chisom Nwankwo, confirmed the tragic news via a Facebook post on October 8, 2026. The team was ambushed and came under heavy gunfire, resulting in Nwankwo's death on the spot.

This incident has deeply affected her colleagues and the humanitarian community in Sokoto, who remember her as a dedicated professional committed to aiding vulnerable communities. The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the attack, stating that the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Shagari had briefed the state command.

DSP Ahmed Rufai mentioned that the police were still gathering information and could not provide further details at that time. The attack has raised concerns about security in the affected communities, with residents urging for increased security measures and patrols.