Tension has gripped Utouno village in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State following reports that suspected bandits have demanded N100 million from Islamic preachers as a condition to continue their religious activities in the community.
The demand was reportedly conveyed through a letter addressed to community leaders, warning that failure to comply would attract consequences.
The development comes on the heels of a recent attack allegedly carried out by Lakurawa bandits in parts of Arewa South in Kangiwa Local Government Area, where at least 33 people were killed.
A resident of the area, who spoke to journalists on condition of anonymity said the letter had unsettled the entire community.
“People are seriously worried. The tone of the message shows they are determined, and the community is anxious about what could happen,” the source said.
According to the resident, the attackers claimed in the letter that they were not intimidated by anyone, including security operatives, and urged the community not to disregard their warning.
Reacting to the development, the Kebbi State Government confirmed awareness of the threat and assured residents that preventive measures were already in place.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Nasir Idris said the governor had ordered an immediate reinforcement of security personnel in Utouno and neighbouring communities.
He stated that Governor Idris had directed the Commissioner of Police to deploy additional officers to the area to forestall any potential attack
