Sokoto locals stage mass protest over worsening banditry, citing killings, kidnappings, and destruction of homes, farms, and livelihoods
Fear and frustration gripped Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State this week as hundreds of men, women, and children took to the streets to protest the relentless wave of bandit attacks plaguing their communities.
The demonstrators blocked the busy Sokoto–Lagos trunk A highway, demanding urgent government intervention as criminal gangs continue to terrorize the region.
According to the displaced residents, armed groups have effectively taken control of several local government areas, leaving entire villages abandoned and residents living in constant fear.
Many families have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind farmlands, livestock, and personal belongings as they search for safety.
The protest in Shagari town, the council headquarters, saw demonstrators—some barefoot and visibly traumatized—chanting slogans of anger and despair.
Residents recounted harrowing accounts of killings, kidnappings, and property destruction, highlighting the magnitude of the crisis.
Malam Kasimu, a resident of Rinaye village, described the recent attacks in vivid detail: “For three consecutive days, bandits invaded our villages.
“They kidnapped our community leader and our Imam after killing three people over the weekend.
“Villages like Aske Dodo, Tungar Barke, and Jandutse have all been attacked. At least 15 people have been abducted, and several others were killed.”
He added, “Many villages have been completely deserted. People are fleeing in all directions, abandoning homes, farms, and livelihoods. The situation has left us feeling hopeless and vulnerable.”
Among the displaced is Rabi Shehu, a mother of five from Jandutse village. She shared her traumatic experience: “During the attack, we ran in different directions to escape the gunmen.
“I have not been able to find my children since then. We have nothing—no food, no shelter, no safety. We only want peace and security so we can return home.”
Other severely affected villages include Lungu, Tungar-Doruwa, Zango, Yan Yandu, Tungar Na’anza, and Ila.
Survivors report widespread destruction of farmlands, homes, and essential community infrastructure. Entire farming communities have been abandoned, raising concerns about hunger and economic collapse in the region.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have visited several affected areas, assessing around 30 homes sheltering displaced families.
Officials also met with traditional leaders, including the District Head of Dundaji, Malam Muhammad Magaji, and the Head of Tungar Barke, Muhammadu Tudu, both displaced by the violence themselves.
The agencies are reportedly coordinating relief efforts, including the provision of food, water, and medical care, though the scale of the crisis presents significant challenges.
Aminu Bodinga, Special Adviser to the Sokoto State Governor on Security Matters, confirmed the “unfortunate happenings” and acknowledged the mass protest in Shagari.
He assured that the government is taking measures to restore peace, though many residents remain skeptical due to the severity of the devastation.
Sokoto State has become a hotspot for violent banditry, with armed groups attacking villages, abducting residents, and disrupting farming and trade.
Analysts warn that without urgent intervention, the crisis could worsen, causing widespread displacement, hunger, and economic collapse.
Community leaders and residents are appealing for immediate action, including increased security presence, intelligence operations, and humanitarian support for displaced families.
“Our people cannot continue living in fear in their own communities,” said Malam Kasimu. “We need decisive action before it is too late.”
As displaced residents continue to seek refuge and protest for their safety, the message from Shagari is clear: urgent government action is required to restore peace, protect lives, and allow residents to return to their homes and rebuild their communities.