Farming communities in Kankia Local Government Area have been thrown into panic following a reported six-day ultimatum by suspected bandits demanding 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep, a development that is threatening livestock production and rural livelihoods.
The threat, allegedly conveyed through a letter delivered to villages on Thursday, has triggered a wave of displacement, with residents fleeing their homes over fears of imminent attacks.
A local source, who spoke anonymously, revealed that the ultimatum followed months of sustained harassment and abductions by armed groups operating within the area.
He identified a notorious bandit leader, Muhammadu, as the figure behind the demand, describing it as an enforced “tax” on vulnerable communities.
According to the source, the bandit leader had earlier mobilised a large convoy of armed men on motorcycles and moved approximately 1,700 rustled animals to Rimaye after a dispute with his associates.
Days later, he reportedly demanded a similar number of livestock from nearby communities, issuing a warning of violent consequences if the demand was not met within six days.
The ultimatum has heightened tension across several communities, including Sukuntuni, Unguwar Tsamiya, Magama, Walawa and Tudun Wulli, where residents reported sightings of armed men moving freely on motorcycles.
The escalating fear has forced widespread displacement, with many residents relocating to Kano State, Katsina and surrounding areas.
Reports indicate that at least 10 villages have been completely deserted.
Residents also recalled previous violent incidents in nearby communities, including an attack in Sayaya, where a hospital was razed, security personnel and civilians were killed, and property destroyed.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of the Civil Society Organisations in Katsina State, Abdurrahman Abdullahi, blamed the worsening insecurity on what he described as the government’s failure to decisively address the crisis.
He noted that earlier community-led negotiations with armed groups had only provided temporary relief and are no longer effective.
Meanwhile, the Director General of Media to the Katsina State Governor, Maiwada Dammalla, said authorities are investigating the situation and cautioned that the alleged letter may have been intended to incite fear among residents.
He assured that the government remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.
Despite these assurances, anxiety continues to grip affected communities as displaced residents remain uncertain about when it will be safe to return home.
