Bandits Impose Multi-Million Naira Levy on Katsina Villages, Heightening Fear

Residents of several rural communities in Katsina State are reportedly facing fresh intimidation as armed bandits demand a payment of ₦5 million from villages in parts of the state.

The affected communities, located in Dan Musa and Matazu local government areas, were said to have received threats from the criminal groups, ordering them to raise the money within a specified timeframe or risk violent attacks.

Sources within the communities revealed that the demand has intensified panic among residents, many of whom are already struggling with insecurity, displacement, and loss of livelihoods. Some villagers are said to be considering fleeing their homes to avoid possible reprisals.

The development highlights the growing trend of bandits imposing illegal levies—often described as “taxes”—on vulnerable rural populations in northern Nigeria. In many cases, such demands are enforced through threats, kidnappings, or attacks on non-compliant communities.

Despite ongoing security operations in the region, reports suggest that armed groups still operate with relative freedom in remote areas, leaving locals exposed and dependent on limited protection.

Community members have called on authorities to intensify security efforts and prevent further escalation, warning that continued extortion could worsen humanitarian conditions and force more people to abandon their homes.