Fear and uncertainty have enveloped several border communities in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State following fresh reports of attacks and mass abductions allegedly linked to notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji.
Communities affected include Tabkin Fili, Jazzamiya, Gindi da Tsawo, Baƙar Fuska and Garin Uban Dawaki, where residents say they are living under constant threat amid escalating insecurity.
Local sources disclosed that scores of residents, mostly women and children, were reportedly abducted during the attacks, although the exact number of those in captivity remains unclear. Families of the victims are said to be enduring agonising moments as they await information about the fate of their loved ones.
Residents further alleged that the armed group has demanded a staggering ₦30 million from each affected community, alongside additional levies described as “rainy season taxes,” as a condition for allowing farmers to return safely to their farmlands.
The affected villages, situated along the Nigeria–Niger border near communities in the Maradi Region of Niger Republic, were reportedly accused by the attackers of providing intelligence to security forces operating across the border.
The development has heightened fears of a worsening humanitarian situation in the area, with many residents reportedly abandoning farming activities at the peak of the rainy season.
Concerned community members have appealed to the Federal Government, Sokoto State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene, secure the release of those allegedly held captive and restore peace to the troubled border settlements.
They warned that failure to act swiftly could further deepen hardship and displacement in communities already grappling with persistent security challenges.
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