Zamfara APC Leader Umar Moriki Killed by Suspected Bandits

Umar Moriki, a senior leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, was tragically shot dead by suspected armed bandits early Saturday morning along the Gusau–Tsafe highway near Fegi village in Tsafe Local Government Area. Moriki was traveling from Gusau to Kaduna after attending a stakeholders’ meeting hosted by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, when the attack occurred.

The Zamfara APC state chapter confirmed Moriki’s death, calling it a devastating loss to both the party and the state. Yusuf Idris, the party’s Publicity Secretary in Zamfara, described Moriki as a loyal party member and a dedicated public servant who was deeply committed to humanitarian assistance and community development.

Moriki, aged 62, held notable political positions throughout his career, including Vice Chairman of Zurmi Local Government Area, Director General of a state agency, and Special Adviser on Rural Electrification. He also contested the Zurmi/Shinkafi House of Representatives seat in the 2023 elections. He is survived by three wives and several children.

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Zamfara State has long been beset by insecurity, with banditry incidents frequently targeting local communities, travellers, and political figures. Despite ongoing military operations and peace efforts, violence on highways like Gusau–Tsafe has escalated in recent years. The killing of Umar Moriki underscores the persistent security challenges facing the region and has raised serious concerns about the safety of public officials and residents alike.

Moriki’s death adds to the growing toll of victims in Zamfara, highlighting the urgent need for strengthened security measures to protect lives and restore peace in the state ​.