Residents of some communities of Katsina State have been gripped by fear following a six-day ultimatum reportedly issued by suspected bandits, demanding 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep to avert an attack.
The threat, according to reports, was contained in a letter delivered to the affected communities on April 6, giving residents until Friday, April 10, to meet the demands.
The development has sparked widespread panic across the impacted communities of Sukuntuni, Unguwar Tsamiya, Magama, Walawa, and Tudun Wulli, where armed men are said to be moving freely on motorcycles.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said the ultimatum followed months of harassment and abductions allegedly carried out by bandits operating in the area.
He further disclosed that a notorious bandit leader had earlier relocated a large number of rustled livestock after a dispute with his associates, before imposing what he described as a “tax” on the affected communities.
His words: “The situation has forced people to flee. Some have relocated to Rimaye, others to parts, while some moved to Katsina town.
”About 10 villages are now deserted,” the resident said.
Residents also expressed concern over previous negotiations with armed groups, noting that such efforts only provided temporary relief and failed to end recurring attacks.
Reacting to the situation, the Director General, Media and Publicity to the Katsina State Governor, appealed for calm, assuring that the authorities are investigating the development.
He also cautioned that the letter may have been intended to incite fear among residents, noting that it had not been officially verified by the government.
“The letter has not been officially acknowledged by any authority. It could have been written to create fear among the people.
”And the government is working tirelessly to protect lives and property across the state,” Dan-Mallam stated.
Despite the assurances from the government, tension remained high across the affected communities, with many displaced residents hesitant to return to their homes due to ongoing security concerns.
