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Residents and survivors of bandit attacks in Katsina State on Thursday shared harrowing accounts of killings, kidnappings, rape and displacement during a town hall meeting organised by News Central TV and tagged “From Fear to Safety.”
The event brought together traditional and religious leaders, victims and survivors of banditry, government representatives, artisanal miners and farmers to discuss the impact of insecurity and pathways to restoring peace across affected communities.
Among those who spoke was Maryamu Musa, a resident of Kankiya, who said years of sustained attacks had forced residents to abandon normal life.
“For over six years, we don’t sleep at home,” she said. “Once we spot bandits, we call one another to hide. Nobody has cows, goats or any livestock anymore.”
Maryamu recounted how her husband, Musa Zaki, was killed by bandits on September 29 while she was caring for her aged mother. According to her, the attackers had looted a neighbour’s kiosk before leaving. Believing the assailants had gone, her husband began calling on residents to return home, only to be shot dead.
“He had bought everything for our daughter’s wedding. The engagement was just days away when they attacked. Now I am left alone to cater for seven children,” she said.
Another survivor, Jamila Samaila, narrated how she was raped during a bandit attack, describing the lasting trauma she continues to endure.
Ahmed Atiku, a resident of Guga, described a community trapped in constant fear.
“We lock everywhere with padlocks just to remain safe. For three weeks, I have not had good sleep. The men stay awake all night and only sleep around 4 a.m.,” he said.
He added that his wife was kidnapped alongside their nine-month-old baby and remains in captivity.
Amiru Sanusi, from Tudun Wuli, said entire communities have been deserted due to persistent attacks.
“There is no living soul left in Tudun Wuli in Kankiya, an area bordering Matazu Local Government Area,” he said.
“They even came yesterday in broad daylight, armed to the teeth. I appeal to security agencies, traditional rulers and the government to restore peace in our communities.”
Recounting his own ordeal, Sanusi said he was abducted while travelling to Magama Market.
“I was heading to Magama Market in the morning. When we got to Kwarare, they kidnapped us and tied us to motorcycles. I suffered burns. They killed my brother before my eyes.”
He said he spent 18 days in captivity while the kidnappers demanded a ₦10 million ransom. His community eventually raised about ₦700,000 to secure his release.
Also speaking at the forum, Halima Abubakar from Batsari said security has gradually improved in her community after years of violence.
“We witnessed a lot of violence for over 10 years, but now peace is gradually returning to our area. We are grateful to the vigilantes and security officers who have continued to keep our community safe,” she said.
“We no longer have our homes, but we are grateful that we are alive.”
The town hall provided survivors with an opportunity to recount the human cost of banditry while calling for stronger collaboration between security agencies, traditional institutions and government authorities to ensure lasting peace across Katsina State.
