Bandits Demand N100m from Kebbi Community, Threaten Attack
Bandits operating in parts of Kebbi South have demanded N100 million from residents of Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area, warning of an attack if their demand is not met.
The threat was conveyed in a letter addressed to community leaders, referencing a previous attack on Woro community in Kaiama LGA, Kwara State, where several people were reportedly killed after ignoring a similar warning.
Residents confirmed receipt of the letter, saying it has thrown the community into panic.
Abbas Alkali, a resident, said, “Everyone is now living in fear. Some people have already left for safer communities, but those of us with nowhere to go are praying to Allah for our safety.”
Malam Sa’ad Suleiman, a tailor, added that the letter—sent seven days ago—has heightened tension, especially during Ramadan. “The government should provide security because they may attack at any time,” he said.
Community leader Malam Ibrahim Bello said residents believe the bandits are serious. “We appeal to the government to deploy soldiers to protect us. People are scared, and many families are making safety plans,” he said.
Confirming the threat, Kebbi State Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, said security personnel, including air surveillance units, have been deployed to the area. “The government is not treating this lightly. Measures are in place to ensure residents’ safety,” he said.
The Kebbi State Police Command also repelled an attack along the Maje border road by suspected Lakurawa militants, who attempted to conceal their approach using cattle. No lives were lost, though temporary security structures were damaged.
The Commissioner of Police, Umar Mohammed Hadeija, warned residents against night movements of cattle that could be exploited by criminals.
The Lakurawa group has been blamed for a series of attacks in Kebbi, including last week’s raids on eight communities in Arewa LGA, which left over 30 people dead.
Last year, the group attacked 15 communities in the same area, killing more than 26 people and ambushing local vigilante members.
Security expert Usman Aliyu said the recent threats are likely intended to show the group is still active despite government and military efforts. “Joint security forces neutralised many of them last year. The attacks are a signal that the Lakurawa are still around,” he said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
