Residents in Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State are gripped by fear after suspected bandits reportedly issued a six-day ultimatum demanding 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep.
The threat, delivered through a letter on April 6, warned communities to meet the demand by April 10 or face an attack.
Villages including Sukuntuni, Unguwar Tsamiya, Magama, Walawa, and Tudun Wulli have been thrown into panic, with reports of armed men moving openly on motorcycles.
A local resident revealed the warning came after months of repeated harassment and kidnappings in the area. He explained that a known bandit leader had previously moved stolen livestock following an internal dispute before imposing what he described as a “tax” on nearby communities.
“The situation has forced people to flee. Some have relocated to Rimaye, others to parts of Kano State, while some moved to Katsina town. About 10 villages are now deserted,” he said.
Many residents say past negotiations with bandits only provided short-term relief, raising doubts about any lasting solution.
State officials have urged calm, noting the letter has not been officially verified and may have been designed to spread fear. Still, anxiety remains high, with displaced families hesitant to return home.
