Fresh anxiety has engulfed Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State after suspected armed groups allegedly issued a chilling ultimatum demanding ₦100 million before “entering” the town.
The threat, reportedly conveyed in a letter written in Hausa and dated 17 February 2026, was said to have been delivered to community leaders in the early hours of Thursday.
“This Is Not a Joke”
According to local sources, the message warned residents against ignoring the demand.
“This is not a joke. We are coming to preach,” the letter reportedly read.
It further demanded ₦100 million, warning that refusal would attract severe consequences. The group allegedly claimed that even the involvement of soldiers would not stop them.
The suspected gunmen also referenced a previous attack on Woru community in Kiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where several people were killed after an earlier warning was allegedly disregarded.
Panic Spreads as Security Tightens
A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the letter has triggered widespread fear.
“People are scared. The mention of what happened in Woru has made the threat more frightening. Many families are already discussing safety plans,” the source said.
Confirming the authenticity of the letter, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, said security agencies had been mobilised to Utono to forestall any attack.
He added that air surveillance and other protective measures had been activated to reassure residents.
Security presence has since been reinforced in Utono and surrounding settlements, as authorities work to prevent escalation. Residents, however, remain on high alert amid growing concerns over rural security in parts of Kebbi and neighbouring states.
