Armed bandits operating in parts of Kebbi South have reportedly demanded N100 million from residents of Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, warning of a violent attack if the ransom is not paid.
The demand was conveyed in a letter addressed to community leaders, heightening tension in the area amid rising insecurity across Kebbi and neighbouring states.
In the message, the attackers cautioned residents not to ignore the warning, insisting that security forces would be unable to stop them. They reportedly referenced a previous assault on Woro community in Kaiama LGA of Kwara State, where lives were lost after a similar threat was disregarded.
Residents confirmed receiving the letter, saying it has triggered widespread fear. Abbas Alkali, a member of the community, said the development has left many anxious, with some families already relocating to safer areas. He added that the matter has been reported to authorities and that the state government is said to be taking action.
Another resident, Malam Sa’ad Suleiman, described the situation as distressing, especially during the Ramadan period, and urged the government to strengthen security presence to avert a possible attack.
Community leader Malam Ibrahim Bello said the threat is being taken seriously, noting that residents have appealed for urgent deployment of soldiers to protect lives and property.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, confirmed that the government has responded by deploying security personnel to the area, including air surveillance, to prevent any attack. He stressed that the administration remains proactive on security matters.
Police Repel Attack Along Maje Border
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command said its operatives repelled an attack along the Maje border road by suspected members of the Lakurawa criminal network.
Police spokesperson Bashir Usman said the attackers attempted to use a herd of cattle as cover during a night operation but were engaged by the Counter Terrorism Unit and forced to retreat. Although some temporary security structures were damaged, no casualties were recorded.
The Commissioner of Police, Umar Mohammed Hadeija, urged herders to avoid moving cattle at night, warning that such movements could be exploited by criminals.
Renewed Violence in Kebbi
The Lakurawa group has been linked to a string of deadly raids across Kebbi, including coordinated attacks on eight communities in Arewa LGA that left more than 30 people dead last week. The affected villages reportedly include Masama, Mamunu, Kamzo, Awashaka, Tungar Bature, Dan Mai Rago, Tungar Tsoho and Gorin Dena.
The recent violence comes weeks after the internationally recognised Argungu Fishing Festival was held in the state.
Security sources said joint operations last year led to the killing of over 80 bandits and several Lakurawa fighters attempting to infiltrate the state from neighbouring areas. However, analysts believe the latest threats and attacks may be aimed at demonstrating the group’s continued presence.
Residents remain on high alert as reinforced security patrols monitor Utouno and surrounding communities to forestall any potential assault.
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