Residents of Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State are living in fear after suspected terrorists reportedly sent a letter demanding ₦100 million before they would be allowed to enter the town to “preach.”
The threat has heightened anxiety in the area, coming amid persistent security challenges across parts of Kebbi and neighbouring states, where armed groups have been linked to killings, kidnappings and extortion.
According to sources, the letter was delivered to community leaders in the early hours of Thursday. In the message, the group warned residents not to ignore the demand.
The letter reportedly stated that the group intended to visit the community and insisted that ₦100 million must be paid. It also warned that failure to comply would attract serious consequences, adding that even the presence of soldiers would not stop their plans.
The attackers allegedly referenced a previous incident in Woru community in Kiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where lives were lost after a similar warning was disregarded.
A resident, who spoke anonymously due to security concerns, said the message has thrown the community into panic.
“People are frightened, especially because of what happened in Woru. Families are already discussing how to protect themselves if anything happens,” the source said.
Confirming the development, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, said the state government had responded swiftly after being informed.
He explained that security agencies had been mobilised to the area to prevent any attack. According to him, additional measures, including air surveillance, have been put in place to safeguard the community.
Idris assured residents that the government takes security issues seriously and remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
Kebbi, like several other states in the North-West, has experienced intermittent attacks by armed groups targeting rural communities for ransom and other criminal activities.
As of the time of this report, security presence has been strengthened in Utono and surrounding communities, while residents remain on alert.
