Utono Kebbi terror threat causes panic as suspected assailants demand N100m; security agencies deploy forces to protect residents

Fresh tension has gripped the Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area following a letter reportedly sent by suspected terrorists demanding N100 million before they would be allowed to enter the town to “preach.”

Also read: Police Foil Bandits’ Attack in Katsina, Two Suspects Killed

The threat comes amid rising security concerns across parts of Kebbi and neighbouring states, where armed groups have carried out deadly raids, kidnappings, and extortion in rural communities.

The letter, allegedly delivered to community leaders on Thursday morning, warned residents not to take the message lightly.

“This is not a joke. We are coming to preach. You must pay us N100 million. If you refuse, you will face the consequences and have no one to blame but yourselves.

Even if you call soldiers, they cannot stop us,” the letter read. It referenced a previous attack on Woru community in Kiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where several people were reportedly killed after a similar warning was ignored.

A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, said the letter has thrown residents into panic. “People are scared.

The mention of what happened in Woru has made the threat more frightening. Many families are already discussing safety plans in case anything happens,” the source said.

Confirming the authenticity of the letter, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, told our correspondent that the state government has deployed security forces to forestall any attack.

“The government, alongside security agencies, has deployed security to the area, including air surveillance,” he said, adding that the state takes the safety of residents seriously.

“His Excellency (the state governor) has been hands-on with security matters, and this will not be an exception.”

Kebbi State, like several North-West states, has faced intermittent attacks in recent years, with armed groups targeting remote communities for ransom and other criminal activities.

Authorities say intensified security operations are ongoing to prevent further incursions and reassure residents.

Also read: Bandits Abduct Six Travellers in Fresh Benue Attack

As of Thursday evening, security presence had been reinforced around Utono and neighbouring settlements, while residents remain on high alert.