Tension has gripped Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State after suspected terrorists reportedly sent a letter demanding N100 million before they would be allowed to enter the town to “preach.”
According to reports, the letter, delivered to community leaders early Thursday, warned that the message should not be taken lightly.
“This is not a joke. We are coming to preach. 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 note allegedly read.
The group reportedly referenced a previous attack on Woru community in Kiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where multiple casualties were recorded after residents ignored a similar warning.
A source within the community, speaking on condition of anonymity for safety reasons, said the letter has created widespread fear among residents.
“People are scared. The mention of what happened in Woru has made the threat more alarming. Many families are already making contingency plans in case anything happens,” the source stated.
Confirming the report, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, stated on Thursday evening that the state government has taken swift action to avert any potential attack.
“I spoke with the Director of Security, who confirmed the report and said security has been deployed to the area,” Idris said.
He added that the government is treating the threat with utmost seriousness.
“Security personnel, including air surveillance units, are already in place. The governor has always prioritised the safety of residents, and this situation will be handled with the same urgency,” he said.
