Bandits Demand Livestock from Katsina Communities

On April 6, 2023, residents of the Kankia area in Katsina received a letter from bandits demanding 700 cows and 1,000 sheep within four days to avoid attacks. The letter, delivered to Malam Ahmadu Kankia, triggered widespread panic among the community, leading many, including Usman Dada, to abandon their homes and relocate to safer areas.

The fear of imminent attacks has caused significant distress, with reports indicating that residents began moving shortly after the letter's delivery. The situation has worsened following a recent resurgence of bandit attacks in the state, despite a brief peace deal reached a month prior.

The community, particularly in Kunduru, Sukunturi, and Tsa Magam villages, has been left deserted as people fled, and small groups have gathered to collect remaining livestock to sell in the market. The state government has convened an emergency security meeting in response to the escalating concerns.