Notorious armed bandit leader Mustapha Babaro has reportedly imposed a N50 million levy on Yargoje and surrounding communities in Kankara Local Government Area, Katsina State.
Residents said Babaro issued a stern warning on Sunday, stating that villages failing to meet the deadline would face severe consequences.
Security analyst Bakastine reported the development in a post on his X handle, expressing fresh concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the area and noting that bandits continue to exploit communities despite recent peace efforts.
The development comes less than three months after Kankara LGA reportedly held two peace talks with armed groups, raising questions about the effectiveness of local truces in safeguarding residents.
“If this can happen in an LGA that held two peace parleys with bandits in less than three months, what kind of truce are local authorities in Katsina State actually reaching, and how effective is it in protecting communities?” Bakastine said.
Residents described the situation as frightening and said they are now fearful of farming or moving freely, highlighting the persistent threat posed by bandits in the region.
