A rise in violent attacks and kidnappings by armed groups has reportedly forced residents of Guga, Kakumi, and Kandarawa villages in the Bakori Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State to abandon their homes. This surge in insecurity persists despite the state government’s introduction of the C-Watch initiative, designed to improve security in the region.
A social media user, @DanKatsina50, shared an image of fleeing villagers, expressing concern over the deteriorating security situation in Southern Katsina, particularly during Ramadan. In the post, they stated, “Residents of Guga, Kakumi, and Kandarawa in Bakori LGA are fleeing as bandits escalate killings and kidnappings this Ramadan. Despite the state government’s launch of the C-Watch initiative, attacks continue in Kankara, Malumfashi, and Faskari LGAs.”
According to a report by Drivetvnews, these attacks are not confined to Bakori LGA, as neighboring areas, including Kankara, Malumfashi, and Faskari, also face relentless assaults by armed groups. The increasing violence has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of the government’s security measures.
In response to the crisis, the Katsina State government established a commission of inquiry to examine the causes of banditry in Bakori and Kankara LGAs. Headed by Justice Abbas Abdullah Bawale, the commission conducted public hearings to collect information on the attacks.
As insecurity in Southern Katsina worsens, affected residents are urging authorities to implement stronger measures to curb the violence. The state government’s ability to address the situation will be critical in restoring peace and stability to the region.