RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
The Nigerian Forest Security Service has deployed personnel to Garko Local Government Area of Kano State following reports that suspected rabid dogs attacked residents across several communities.
The deployment followed reports that one suspected rabid dog bit 18 people in Garko town and neighbouring communities, while two other dogs were also suspected of having contracted rabies.
Kano State Commander of the NFSS, Abdullahi Al’ameen, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Usman Abdullahi-Umar.
According to Al’ameen, the first dog reportedly attacked 11 people in Garko before moving to other communities, including Raba, Kadage, Gurjiya and Dausai.
Seven additional residents were reportedly bitten in the neighbouring communities, bringing the number of people attacked to 18.
Following the incidents, personnel from the NFSS Garko Division were deployed to the affected areas to track and contain the suspected rabid dogs.
The operation is being led by the Divisional Forest Officer, Auwalu Muhammad.
Al’ameen urged residents of Garko and surrounding communities to remain vigilant and avoid approaching stray dogs or animals displaying unusual behaviour.
He also advised residents to promptly report sightings of suspected rabid dogs to the NFSS or other relevant authorities to enable personnel to respond.
The commander stressed that anyone bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies should seek immediate medical attention.
Rabies is a serious viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly following a bite. Prompt medical treatment after possible exposure is critical.
Al’ameen assured residents that NFSS personnel would continue monitoring the affected communities and take necessary measures to prevent further attacks.
The deployment is expected to continue as personnel search for the suspected rabid dogs and authorities assess the situation across the affected communities.
