Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
Fresh security concerns have emerged in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State following reports that suspected bandits imposed a ₦30 million levy on residents of Mazoji village in exchange for protection from attacks.
According to local sources, the armed groups reportedly warned the community to raise the money or risk violent attacks on residents and surrounding settlements. The development has reportedly thrown villagers into fear and uncertainty as many residents struggle with worsening insecurity and economic hardship.
Community members familiar with the situation alleged that the demand was communicated after repeated threats and growing intimidation by armed groups operating within parts of the area. Residents reportedly fear that failure to comply could trigger deadly attacks, kidnappings or destruction of property.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not officially confirmed the reported levy demand or announced any arrests linked to the alleged threat. However, local residents have continued appealing to both state and federal authorities for urgent intervention to prevent escalation.
Katsina State has remained one of the states heavily affected by banditry and rural insecurity in northwestern Nigeria. Several communities across Matazu, Faskari, Batsari, Jibia, Kankara and other local government areas have repeatedly experienced attacks involving killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling and extortion by armed groups.
Security experts note that illegal levies imposed on rural communities have increasingly become part of the tactics used by bandit groups to exert control over vulnerable villages, especially in remote areas with limited security presence. In some cases, residents are forced to contribute money, farm produce or livestock to avoid attacks.
The latest report from Mazoji village adds to broader concerns over the humanitarian and economic impact of insecurity across rural northern Nigeria, where farming activities, local trade and normal community life have been disrupted by repeated violence and fear.
Residents of the affected area reportedly remain anxious as they await stronger security deployment and government response capable of protecting lives and property.
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