Communities in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State have cried out to both the state and federal governments to urgently intervene in the worsening security situation that has displaced residents from at least 12 villages.
Speaking at a press conference in Sokoto on Saturday, community leader Adamu Haruna Kebbe said the persistent attacks by armed bandits have forced hundreds of families to flee their homes, abandoning farmlands, livestock, and other sources of livelihood.
Haruna, who spoke on behalf of the affected communities, described the situation as “tragic and unbearable,” lamenting that residents now live in constant fear. He said despite repeated reports to authorities, the attacks have continued unabated.
“We are calling on the Sokoto and the Federal Government to empower the security agents in our area with adequate weapons and logistics support to effectively confront these bandits. Our people can no longer sleep with their eyes closed,” Haruna said.
He explained that many of the affected communities have been completely deserted due to incessant raids, adding that the absence of timely intervention could worsen the humanitarian situation in the area.
The community also appealed to the state government and relevant agencies to provide relief materials to victims who are now taking refuge in neighbouring towns and villages.
“We want the government to come to our aid with food, shelter, and medical support. Many families are stranded, and their condition is worsening daily,” he added.
Haruna further called for a comprehensive security arrangement to protect vulnerable communities, stressing that without safety and stability, agricultural activities and local trade — the backbone of the Kebbe economy — would continue to decline.
The Kebbe communities’ appeal adds to growing public concern over rising insecurity in parts of Sokoto State, where armed groups have continued to terrorize rural areas, targeting farmers, travellers, and local markets.
