Notorious bandits operating in parts of Kebbi South have demanded N100 million from Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area, warning that failure to meet their demand would lead to a deadly attack.
The threat, conveyed through a letter addressed to community leaders, has heightened fear in the area, which has seen rising insecurity from armed gangs engaging in raids, kidnappings, and extortion.
“This is not a joke. You must pay us N100 million. If you refuse, you will face the consequences and have no one to blame but yourselves.
“Even if you call soldiers, they cannot stop us,” the letter reportedly read.
The group also referenced a previous attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, where several people were killed after a similar warning was ignored.
Residents confirmed receiving the letter, saying it has plunged the community into panic.
Abbas Alkali, a local resident, said, “Yes, they wrote to us demanding N100 million. Everyone is living in fear. Some people have already left for safer areas, but those of us who have nowhere to go are staying and praying for our safety.”
Malam Sa’ad Suleiman, a community tailor, expressed concern over the timing of the threat, noting, “The letter was addressed to the community leaders, not clerics.
“People are apprehensive, especially during Ramadan. The government must provide security as the attackers may strike anytime.”
Community leader Malam Ibrahim Bello added that residents are taking the threat seriously.
“They warned us to take their plan seriously. We have nowhere else to go, and we appeal to the government to deploy soldiers quickly,” he said.
Another resident, speaking anonymously, said the mention of Woro in Kwara State made the warning even more frightening, prompting families to discuss safety measures.
Confirming the report, Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, said the state government has taken immediate action to prevent an attack.
“Security personnel have been deployed to the area, including air surveillance. The government is proactive on security matters and will not compromise the safety of residents,” he stated.
Sources disclosed that security has been reinforced around Utouno and neighbouring communities, while residents remain on high alert amid fears of a potential assault.