Residents of communities in Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State have been thrown into panic after suspected bandits issued a six-day ultimatum demanding 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep to avoid an attack.
The demand was reportedly delivered in a letter on April 6, giving residents until April 10 to comply. Affected communities include:
Sukuntuni
Unguwar Tsamiya
Magama
Walawa
Tudun Wulli
Locals say the threat has heightened fear, with reports of armed bandits moving freely on motorcycles across the area.
Rising fear and displacement
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said the ultimatum followed months of:
Harassment
Abductions
Repeated attacks
He added that a known bandit leader had earlier moved stolen livestock after internal disputes before imposing what he described as a “tax” on communities.
The situation has led to mass displacement, with many residents fleeing to nearby areas such as:
Rimaye
Parts of Kano State
Katsina town
According to reports, about 10 villages have been deserted.
The Katsina State Government, through spokesperson Maiwada Dan-Mallam, urged residents to remain calm, stating that:
The letter has not been officially verified
It may have been intended to create panic
Authorities are investigating the situation
Despite these assurances, tension remains high, and many displaced residents are reluctant to return home
This incident reflects a growing pattern in parts of northern Nigeria where armed groups:
Impose levies on communities
Control rural areas
Use threats and violence to enforce compliance
It also raises fresh concerns about the effectiveness of previous negotiations between communities and bandits, which residents say have only provided temporary relief rather than lasting security.
