Residents of several communities in Kankiya Local Government Area of Katsina State have begun fleeing their homes after suspected bandits issued a threatening letter demanding livestock ahead of April 10, 2026.
According to local sources, the armed groups instructed the affected villages to provide 1,000 sheep and 700 cows or face violent consequences. The ultimatum reportedly targeted four communities within the local government area.
A video obtained by The News Chronicle on Tuesday morning shows frightened residents evacuating their villages, carrying belongings and seeking safety in neighbouring areas. Many families, including women and children, were seen moving in groups, expressing fear over possible attacks.
The letter allegedly warned that failure to meet the demand before the stated deadline would result in deadly reprisals. This development has heightened tension across the area, with residents choosing to leave rather than risk confrontation.
Community members called on security agencies to intervene urgently and restore calm, noting that the mass displacement could worsen humanitarian conditions in the affected communities.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities were yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while residents continue to flee for safety
