Residents of Bakale village in Kilgori district, Yabo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, have reportedly been ordered to pay a N20 million levy to prevent further attacks from an armed group terrorising the area.
Bandit Leader Issues Fresh Threat
In an audio recording obtained by DailyTrust reporter, the gang leader instructed the village head to gather residents and relay the group’s new demand.
“Did you meet with them? Did they agree to obey your command?” he asked.
After the traditional ruler confirmed that he had spoken to the villagers, the bandit ordered another meeting and insisted the community must now pay N20 million to avoid violence.
“Pay or Be Attacked” – Bandits Threaten
The leader of the armed group claimed the levy was meant to buy peace for the villagers.
“We don’t want to attack you. That is why we decided to impose this levy. If you pay, I promise you will continue to live in peace. We will not allow any group to attack your community or kidnap your people. But if you fail to pay, we will attack you, kill you, and abduct your people. This is our message,” he said.
He warned that failure to comply would lead to attacks, killings, and abductions.
Communities Across Two Districts Targeted
A community leader, who requested anonymity, told our reporter that several neighbouring settlements have faced similar demands in recent months.
The affected communities stretch across Kilgori and Torankawa districts, including Bazar, Alkalije, Gari, Bakale, Dagel, Adarawa, Kwaidaza, Kilgori Runji, Tudu, Tile, Kibiyare, Barmadu and others.
Levies Range Between N3m and N20m
According to the source, each village is billed differently, depending on its size and population.
Levies demanded by the armed groups range from N3 million to N20 million.
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