Residents of Bakale village recently received a severe ultimatum. An armed group demanded a N20 million levy. This village is in Kilgori district, Yabo Local Government Area, Sokoto State. The payment aims to prevent further attacks.
New Threat from Gang Leader
An audio recording provided by a DailyTrust reporter surfaced. The gang leader instructed the village head. He was to gather residents. Then, he must relay the group’s new demands.
The leader inquired, “Did you meet with them?” He asked if they agreed to obey his command.
The traditional ruler confirmed his discussion. He had spoken to the villagers. The bandit then ordered another meeting. He insisted the community pay N20 million. This payment, he said, would prevent violence.
Compliance or Consequences
The armed group’s leader stated the levy’s purpose. It was “meant to buy peace” for the villagers.
“We prefer not to attack you,” he asserted. “We imposed this levy for that reason. If you pay, you will live in peace. We will protect you from other groups. We will not permit kidnapping. However, if you fail, we will attack you. We will kill you. We will abduct your people. This is our message.”
Widespread Targeting Across Districts
An anonymous community leader spoke to our reporter. He revealed that several nearby settlements faced similar demands. These events occurred in recent months.
Numerous settlements across Kilgori and Torankawa districts are affected. These include Bazar, Alkalije, Gari, Bakale, Dagel, and Adarawa. Kwaidaza, Kilgori Runji, Tudu, Tile, Kibiyare, and Barmadu are also on the list. Many other settlements also face threats.
Varying Ransom Demands
Each village receives a distinct bill. The amount depends on its size and population. Demands from armed groups range from N3 million to N20 million.
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