Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Bornet .k
A respected Islamic cleric, Alaysa’u Abubakar Maccido, has been injured following a stampede in Dogon Daji community, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, after residents reportedly fled in panic over reports of suspected bandit infiltration into nearby communities.
The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, July 22, 2026, when rumours and reports spread among residents that suspected members of the Lakurawa armed group had entered communities around Sabawa, Maradu and neighbouring villages in Tambuwal Local Government Area.
As fear spread across the affected communities, residents reportedly rushed to leave the area in search of safety, leading to confusion and panic among traders and community members gathered around Dogon Daji market.
During the rush, Alaysa’u Abubakar Maccido reportedly fell and was trampled by fleeing residents, sustaining serious injuries, including a fractured leg. The cleric was later taken for medical attention and is currently receiving treatment.
Sources familiar with the incident said the panic was triggered by concerns over the movement of armed individuals suspected to be members of Lakurawa, a group that has recently raised security concerns in parts of north-western Nigeria, particularly along communities bordering neighbouring countries.
The incident has renewed concerns among residents about the growing vulnerability of rural communities in Sokoto State, where fears of attacks, displacement and insecurity have affected farming activities, local markets and daily life.
Tambuwal Local Government Area has previously experienced security challenges linked to armed groups operating in parts of Sokoto and neighbouring states. Residents have repeatedly called on security agencies to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and provide quicker responses to emerging threats.
The Sokoto State Government and security agencies have yet to issue an official statement confirming the reported infiltration or providing further details about the situation in Sabawa, Maradu and surrounding communities.
Security analysts have continued to warn that early detection of armed group movements and stronger cooperation between local communities and security forces remain critical in preventing attacks and protecting vulnerable populations.
Meanwhile, residents of Dogon Daji and surrounding areas are urging authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, restore calm and ensure adequate security measures are put in place to prevent further panic.
The injury suffered by the Islamic cleric has become a symbol of the wider fear experienced by communities affected by insecurity, where even rumours of possible attacks can trigger mass movement and disruption of normal activities.
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