Panic in Katsina as Suspected Bandits Allegedly Issue Ultimatum Demanding Cattle and Sheep

Residents of several communities in Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State have been thrown into panic following reports that suspected bandits issued a six-day ultimatum demanding large numbers of livestock.

According to local accounts, the armed group allegedly demanded 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep from affected communities, sparking fear and mass displacement of residents.

The demand was reportedly communicated through a letter delivered to villages on Thursday, forcing many residents to flee their homes over fears of possible attacks.

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A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed the situation followed months of harassment and abductions in the area. He also alleged that a bandit leader known as Muhammadu had previously moved large numbers of rustled animals before issuing what he described as a “tax” demand on communities.

He further alleged that armed men have been moving freely on motorcycles, forcing entire villages to abandon their homes.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Civil Society Organisations in Katsina State, Abdurrahman Abdullahi, blamed worsening insecurity on what he described as government inability to fully address the crisis.

However, the Director General of Media to the Katsina State Governor, Maiwada Dammalla, said authorities are investigating the report and suggested the letter may have been intended to create panic, adding that government efforts to secure lives and property are ongoing.

Despite official statements, tension remains high in the affected communities as many displaced residents remain uncertain about returning home.