Residents of Kebbe town in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State have been thrown into fear after suspected bandits allegedly demanded ₦40 million from the community and threatened to attack if the money is not paid.
The fresh security scare has reportedly left residents deeply concerned, with the suspected criminals said to have issued a deadline for the payment of the huge sum.
According to local sources, the bandits initially gave residents a five-day ultimatum to raise the ₦40 million levy. The deadline was reportedly extended to Sunday following appeals from members of the community.
The development has raised fears of a possible attack, particularly as residents struggle to meet the alleged demand.
Police Confirm Awareness of Threat
The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed that it is aware of the reported threat.
Speaking on the development, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) had already commenced efforts to verify and respond to the information.
“The command is aware of the information and the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) is already working on the information,” Rufai said.
He also confirmed that the suspected bandits had reportedly given the affected villagers until Sunday to raise the demanded money.
Authorities have not indicated whether any attack has occurred in connection with the alleged demand.
ADC Governorship Candidate Calls for Urgent Action
Reacting to the situation, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Hon. Manir Dan’iya, described the reported development as “grave.”
Dan’iya called on both the Sokoto State Government and the Federal Government to immediately strengthen security around Kebbe and other vulnerable communities in the state.
In a statement issued through his media aide, the ADC candidate said the alleged demand was an indication of the growing level of criminal control over the lives and economic activities of residents in affected communities.
He urged Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the Federal Government to deploy additional security personnel, intelligence resources and operational support to Kebbe ahead of the reported Sunday deadline.
Residents Fear Possible Attack
The reported ₦40 million demand has heightened anxiety in Kebbe, with residents reportedly worried that failure to meet the demand could trigger an attack.
Security experts and community stakeholders have continued to call for stronger intelligence gathering, rapid security response and increased protection for communities vulnerable to attacks by criminal groups.
For now, residents are awaiting further intervention from security authorities as the reported deadline approaches.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to prevent any possible attack on the community.
