Kebbi Community in Panic as Boko Haram Demands N100 Million, Threatens Massacre
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State - A wave of fear has swept through the Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, as residents began a mass exodus from their homes on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This panic stems from a handwritten threat letter allegedly issued by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, demanding a staggering N100 million as zakat and warning of a potential deadly invasion.
Threat Letter Circulates, Prompting Immediate Evacuation
The letter, dated Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and addressed to the district head, was exclusively obtained by sources. It reportedly warns that fighters of Jama'atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), historically linked to Boko Haram, could attack the town at any moment. The insurgents instructed residents not to flee and demanded that the N100 million be assembled in cash at the district head's palace before their arrival. Additionally, cattle owners were directed to bring their livestock home for counting as part of the enforced zakat collection.
Residents Flee Amid Memories of Past Attacks
Community members told reporters that their decision to evacuate was heavily influenced by past incidents in other northern Nigerian communities where similar warnings were ignored, leading to catastrophic consequences. Musa Abdullahi, a resident, explained the urgency: "People are packing out because we have seen this pattern before. They send letters first, people think it is a joke, and then they attack. Nobody here wants to wait for that to happen."
Another resident, Sani, described the chaotic scene: "This afternoon, vehicles and motorcycles have been carrying families to neighbouring communities. Parents are afraid for their children. We cannot sleep peacefully anymore." Reports indicate that mothers hurriedly moved their children out of the village after community leaders confirmed the letter's authenticity, exacerbating the flight.
Economic Activities Halt as Anxiety Intensifies
The threat has brought daily life to a standstill in Utono. A local farmer revealed that economic activities have severely slowed, with residents abandoning farms and businesses in a desperate bid for safety. "Nobody is going to the farm again. People are only thinking about safety now. Some families were left with only the clothes they were wearing," he said. The absence of clear security assurances from authorities has further deepened the community's anxiety, with many believing it is better to evacuate early than risk regret later.
Heightened Fears Due to Similar Tactics in Neighbouring States
A youth leader in the area highlighted that fears are intensified because insurgents have allegedly used identical tactics in parts of neighbouring states, where warnings were dismissed before brutal attacks occurred. "What is frightening people is that this same thing happened in another community before. The government's response came late, and many people were killed. We don’t want to repeat that mistake here," he stated. This historical context has made residents particularly wary, fueling the rapid exodus as they seek refuge in nearby towns.
Background on Security Operations in Kebbi
In related developments, troops of 8 Division/Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, recently conducted clearance operations aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts in identified enclaves across Kebbi State. These efforts resulted in the elimination of several terrorists, underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the region. However, the fresh threat in Utono has reignited concerns about the persistent insurgency and its impact on local communities.
The situation remains fluid, with residents anxiously awaiting further updates from security agencies. The mass displacement highlights the broader issues of terrorism and insecurity plaguing northern Nigeria, as communities grapple with the constant threat of violence and extortion.
