Katsina communities in panic after bandits demand 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep

Residents in several communities within the Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State are experiencing panic following a reported six-day ultimatum from suspected bandits demanding 700 cattle and 1,000 sheep. This demand, allegedly communicated via a letter to affected villages, has prompted many residents to flee their homes due to fears of imminent attacks. A resident, speaking anonymously, stated that the ultimatum follows months of harassment and abductions by armed groups. He mentioned a bandit leader named Muhammadu, who reportedly moved 1,700 rustled animals after a dispute with associates, then issued a "tax" demand for the same number of animals from local communities. The threat has caused widespread fear in villages including Sukuntuni, Unguwar Tsamiya, Magama, Walawa, and Tudun Wulli, with reports of armed men on motorcycles. Many have relocated to Rimaye, parts of Kano State, or Katsina town, leaving about 10 villages deserted. Previous attacks in the area include an incident in Sayaya where a hospital was burned, a policeman and residents were killed, and vehicles were destroyed. Abdurrahman Abdullahi, Chairman of Civil Society Organisations in Katsina State, attributed the worsening insecurity to the government's inability to address the crisis, noting that previous community-led negotiations are no longer effective. However, Maiwada Dammalla, Director General of Media to the Katsina State Governor, stated that authorities are investigating and suggested th