Tension has gripped parts of Katsina State following a chilling ultimatum by armed bandits demanding 700 cows and 1,000 sheep from vulnerable rural communities, with threats of imminent attacks if their conditions are not met.
The threats, targeted at villages in Kankia Local Government Area, were reportedly conveyed through written letters delivered to community leaders around April 6. Affected communities include Rimaye and Sukunturi, where residents were given only a few days to comply or face violent reprisals.
The ultimatum has since triggered widespread panic, forcing a mass exodus from several villages. Communities such as Kunduru, Tsa, and Magam have been largely deserted, as terrified residents flee for safety.
Many displaced families are said to have sought refuge in Kankia town and neighbouring areas, while others hurriedly sold off their livestock before escaping, fearing they could lose everything in the looming attacks.
Local sources describe a dire situation, with entire settlements emptied and economic activities paralysed under the weight of fear and uncertainty.
