Bandits in parts of Kebbi South have demanded N100 million from Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area, warning that they would attack if their demand is not met.
The threat came in a letter sent directly to community leaders.
Security concerns have been rising in Kebbi and neighbouring states, where armed groups have carried out deadly raids, kidnappings, and extortion in rural areas.
In the letter, the gang made it clear that residents should not ignore the warning.
“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 stated.
The bandits referred to a past attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State, where several people were reportedly killed after a similar warning was ignored.
Residents confirmed receiving the letter, saying it has caused panic in the community.
Abbas Alkali, a local resident, said, “Yes, they wrote to us demanding N100 million from our community. Everyone is now living in fear because of the threat to attack us if we fail to meet their demand.
“The matter has been reported to the local government chairman, and I learnt that the state government and security agencies are taking measures to address the threat.
“We are not leaving anything to chance. We know they may come as they promised. Some people have already left for safer communities out of fear, but those of us who have nowhere to go will remain and continue to pray to Allah for our safety.”
Malam Sa’ad Suleiman, a tailor, said residents are deeply worried.
“The letter was addressed to the community leaders, not any cleric. People are becoming apprehensive because of this threat, especially during Ramadan.
“The government should provide the necessary security for us because they may attack at any time,” he said, adding that the letter was sent seven days ago and since then tension has gripped the community, with many unable to sleep.
Malam Ibrahim Bello, a community leader, said residents are taking the threat seriously.
“They warned us to take their plan to attack our community seriously. We believe they may come as they said, but we have nowhere else to go. We appeal to the government to deploy soldiers to protect us.
“We were told the government is taking action, but we want them to come quickly because the attackers may strike at any time,” he said.
“People are scared. The mention of what happened in Woro in Kwara State has made the threat even more frightening. Many families are already discussing safety plans in case anything happens,” another resident, who preferred not to be named, said.
Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, confirmed the letter and said the government has acted to prevent any attack.
“I just spoke with the Director of Security. He confirmed the information and said security personnel have been deployed to the area,” he said, adding that the government is taking the threat seriously.
“The government, in collaboration with security agencies, has deployed personnel to the area, including air surveillance. I am sure you are aware that the state government is not compromising on security. His Excellency has been proactive on security matters, and this situation will not be an exception,” he added.
Sources revealed that security presence has been strengthened around Utouno and neighbouring communities, while residents remain alert amid fears of a possible attack.
