Fear has gripped Utouno community in Ngaski Local Government Area, Kebbi State, after armed bandits demanded N100 million, warning that failure to comply would trigger a deadly assault.
The ransom threat, delivered via a letter to community leaders, comes amid increasing insecurity in the region, where armed groups have been involved in kidnappings, extortion, and violent raids.
In the letter, the bandits reportedly stated: “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 group also referenced a past attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, where several residents were killed after a similar warning was ignored.
Residents confirmed receiving the threat and said it has sparked panic throughout the community. Abbas Alkali, a local resident, said, “They demanded N100 million from us. Some people have fled to safer areas, but many of us remain, praying for our safety.”
Malam Sa’ad Suleiman, a tailor in the community, added, “The letter was addressed to community leaders, not clerics. People are anxious, especially during Ramadan. We need the government to provide protection because the attackers could strike anytime.”
Community leader Malam Ibrahim Bello said residents are taking the threat seriously.
“The bandits warned us clearly. We have nowhere else to go and call on the government to deploy security personnel without delay,” he stated.
Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, noted that recalling the Woro attack has made families even more cautious, with many discussing emergency plans.
Confirming the report, Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, said the government has strengthened security in Utouno and nearby areas, including air surveillance.
“The state government is fully committed to protecting lives and ensuring safety in all communities,” he said.
Sources added that security personnel have been reinforced in the area, while residents remain on high alert amid fears of a possible attack.
