IMMIGRATION OFFICER ATTACKED BY HERDSMEN IN ATISBO EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO NIS LEADERSHIP AFTER SUCCESSFUL SURGERY

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED 

IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA – An officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), S.A. Sikiru, who was brutally attacked by suspected herdsmen in Atisbo Local Government Area of Oyo State on November 14, 2025, has expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of the Service and colleagues for their overwhelming support during his recovery.

Narrating his experience from the clinic where he is still receiving treatment, Officer Sikiru recounted how the attack left him severely injured, requiring urgent and extensive medical attention.

He was initially rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, but due to the ongoing strike by medical personnel, he had to be transferred to another medical facility.

Upon arrival at the new hospital, he was informed that the surgery required to save his life would cost ₦5.4 million.

According to him, the situation seemed overwhelming until the Command’s Medical Officer, CSI Bamidele, intervened.

Through the officer’s efforts and negotiation, the medical bill was reduced to ₦3.7 million, making it possible for the surgery to be carried out. The surgery, which lasted five hours, was successfully completed.

Still recuperating, Officer Sikiru is reportedly stable and strong enough to speak.

In an emotional message of gratitude, he thanked the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, for her support and concern throughout the ordeal.

He also appreciated the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) to the Comptroller General, the Zonal Coordinator, as well as the Comptroller of Oyo State Command, Mr. Nwosu, whom he described as a father figure whose care and encouragement helped him pull through.

He extended heartfelt appreciation to all officers and men of the Oyo State Command for their moral and financial support during his most critical moments.

According to him, their contributions, prayers and solidarity kept him strong through the challenging period.

Officer Sikiru further commended the collective efforts of the entire NIS Command, describing their intervention as timely, life-saving, and deeply reassuring.

He prayed that God’s blessings be upon everyone who supported him, saying their kindness restored his hope and aided his recovery.