Residents of Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area, Kebbi State, are living in fear after armed bandits demanded a N100 million levy, threatening violent attacks if the community fails to comply.
The armed group reportedly communicated its demand through a letter addressed to community leaders, warning that refusal to pay would attract dire consequences.
According to residents, the letter emphasized that even security interventions, including soldiers, would not deter the planned attack.
“This is not a joke. You must pay us N100 million or face the consequences,” the letter reportedly stated, heightening tension in the community since it was received about a week ago.
The threat has triggered widespread fear, forcing some families to flee while others remain uncertain about their safety.
Abbas Alkali, a resident, confirmed the development to newsmen on Monday, describing the mood in the community as tense.
“Yes, they demanded N100 million from us. People are living in fear because they warned they would attack if we don’t comply,” he said.
“We have reported the matter to the authorities, and we understand security agencies are taking steps. However, some residents have already left for safer places.”
Another resident, Sa’ad Suleiman, urged the government to intensify security presence.
“The letter was directed at our leaders. It has caused serious anxiety among residents. We need adequate protection because the attackers may strike at any time,” he said.
Community leader Ibrahim Bello also expressed concern, stating that the threat was being treated with utmost seriousness.
“We believe they are capable of carrying out their warning. We are appealing to the government to urgently deploy more security personnel,” he said.
Residents noted that the bandits referenced a previous attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State, where lives were lost after a similar warning was allegedly ignored, further heightening anxiety in Utouno.
Confirming the development, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, said the government had activated security measures to prevent any attack.
“I just spoke with the Director of Security, and he confirmed that personnel have been deployed to the area,” Idris said.
“The government is not taking this lightly. Security agencies, including air surveillance teams, have been mobilised.”
Sources indicated that security presence has since been reinforced around the community and neighbouring settlements, as residents remain on high alert over fears of a possible assault.
