At least 20 people have been killed and an unknown number abducted following a violent attack by armed men in northwestern Nigeria, in what is the latest incident in a region facing persistent insecurity.

The attack took place in the Shiroro district of Niger State, where gunmen stormed the villages of Bagna and Erena on Tuesday. According to Reuters, the attackers destroyed homes and operated for several hours, overwhelming local security forces.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that security personnel responded to the attack, but two community guards and a driver were killed during the confrontation, according to Reuters. However, residents reported that the death toll was much higher, saying at least 20 villagers were killed in the raid, as reported by Reuters.

Survivors said many residents fled to nearby areas such as Gwada, Zumba and Galadima Kogo seeking safety, while others were abducted by the attackers, according to Reuters. The northwestern region of Nigeria has long struggled with armed groups involved in killings and kidnappings, particularly in rural communities with limited security presence, according to Reuters.

The incident increases pressure on President Bola Tinubu, who is advocating for reforms to allow Nigeria’s 36 states to establish their own police forces to strengthen security responses, as reported by Reuters.

Nigeria continues to battle multiple security challenges, including banditry and insurgency, making insecurity one of the country’s most pressing issues, according to Reuters.