Sokoto

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Residents of Kebbe town in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State have been thrown into fear after suspected bandits reportedly demanded N40 million from the community and threatened to attack if the money was not paid.

The gunmen allegedly issued a deadline for the payment and warned that residents could be killed and the town set ablaze if their demand was not met.

According to information shared on X by Crisis Reporter Bakastine, the bandits communicated their demand through a farmer who delivered a telephone handset to the District Head of Kebbe, Mallam Lawal Labbo.

The attackers reportedly initially gave the community five days to raise the money. The deadline was later extended to seven days after residents appealed to them.

The telephone handset was subsequently handed over to the Divisional Police Officer in the area for security authorities to monitor the situation.

The bandits also allegedly instructed that the telephone should remain charged and accessible. They reportedly threatened to attack the community if their calls were not answered.

The development was confirmed by the spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, who said the police had received information about the threat and had begun taking steps to address it.

“We are aware of the information and we, together with our Anti-Kidnapping Unit, AKU, are already working on the information,” Rufai said.

The police spokesperson further confirmed that the suspected bandits had given the community an ultimatum to raise N40 million.

The reported deadline has heightened anxiety among residents, with fears of a possible attack if the demand is not fulfilled.

Security authorities are expected to intensify efforts to prevent any attack on the community and protect residents from the threat.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have killed two terrorists and recovered weapons and motorcycles during an encounter in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The operation took place after security forces received intelligence in the early hours of 28 August 2026 about the movement of terrorists who were reportedly transporting hundreds of rustled cattle through the Maikujera general area of Rabah LGA.

Acting on the information, troops from Sector 2 moved to the area to intercept the suspected terrorists. The troops, however, came under attack after encountering an ambush laid by the terrorists.

The soldiers responded with superior firepower and fought their way through the ambush. Two terrorists were killed, while others fled into nearby bushes.

A subsequent search of the area resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

The gun battle caused the rustled cattle to scatter into the surrounding bushes. The military said efforts were underway with the support of local vigilantes to trace and recover the livestock.

According to the Joint Task Force, the area remained calm after the operation as troops continued to maintain a strong presence and monitor the surroundings to prevent further attacks.

The force said its personnel remained committed to sustaining operations against terrorist and criminal groups while protecting lives and property within its area of responsibility.

The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on 28 August 2026.

By Uzair Adam

The Sokoto State Police Command has thwarted an attempted bandit attack on Tauma Village in Bodinga Local Government Area, recovering five magazines loaded with 40 rounds of live ammunition after a gun battle with the attackers.

The incident occurred on the night of July 25 following a distress call reporting that a large number of armed bandits had invaded the community.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) promptly deployed tactical teams, including operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU), to confront the attackers.

According to the statement, security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce exchange of gunfire, forcing them to flee into a nearby forest with suspected gunshot injuries.

A subsequent search of the surrounding area led to the recovery of five magazines containing 40 rounds of live ammunition.

The command said no casualties were recorded among security personnel or members of the community during the operation.

It added that confidence-building patrols had been intensified in and around Tauma Village to reassure residents and strengthen security against further attacks.

The police also disclosed that neighbouring divisions had been placed on alert and directed to monitor for injured suspects who might seek medical treatment or attempt to evade arrest within their jurisdictions.

The command urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious individuals, particularly those with visible gunshot wounds, to the nearest police station or other security agencies.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have stopped a kidnap attempt by suspected terrorists in Surimi, Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, a community close to the Sokoto State border.

The operation led to the rescue of four abducted persons, while no soldier was injured during the mission.

The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement posted on its official X account. It explained that the operation followed credible intelligence that armed terrorists were carrying out kidnapping activities in the area.

The statement said troops at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Unashi responded immediately and moved to the location to block the suspects’ escape routes. The soldiers later confronted the terrorists and overpowered them with superior firepower.

“Faced with the troops’ overwhelming response, the terrorists abandoned the four kidnapped individuals and fled into the nearby bush,” the statement elaborated.

“The rescued individuals were later reunited with their families.”

Military authorities also confirmed that Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded no casualties during the operation. They described the successful rescue as another indication of the troops’ commitment to protecting lives and tackling insecurity across Nigeria’s North-West region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commissioned a new fleet of armoured vehicles and security equipment in Sokoto State, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening Nigeria’s internal security.

At the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, the Minister praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his proactive leadership and investment in security assets, noting that peace remains the foundation for sustainable development.

General Musa stated that the newly deployed combat assets would enhance force protection, mobility, and rapid response capabilities for security personnel in the region.

“While modern equipment is essential, it must be driven by professionalism, discipline, and seamless inter-agency coordination,” the Minister said, commending the state government for complementing military operations with community-based intelligence.

He urged frontline troops to utilise the equipment responsibly and in strict adherence to the rule of law, charging them to justify public investment through selfless service and decisive action against criminal elements.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguarding lives and fostering an environment for economic prosperity.

By Uzair Adam

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have killed several bandits and destroyed their hideouts during a clearance operation in parts of Sokoto State.

The Daily Reality learned that the operation was carried out on June 4 around Dangulbi and Kurawa villages in Tureta Local Government Area, near the border with Zamfara State.

According to the sources, the troops, working alongside other security agencies and local vigilantes, engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle that resulted in the death of several fighters, including some notorious kingpins. Many others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

The operation targeted criminal camps located in the rugged highlands surrounding the affected communities.

Following sustained military pressure, the bandits were forced to retreat into forests in neighbouring states.

A security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, praised the troops for their swift response and professionalism, noting that the operation helped prevent a potentially serious attack on local communities.

The source reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that the current offensive against banditry would continue across the region.

Several weapons and motorcycles used by the criminals were also recovered during the operation.

Although not officially authorised to comment on the mission, the source disclosed that the operation was conducted by personnel of the 8 Division under Operation Fansan Yamma and inflicted heavy losses on the armed groups.

The latest success comes amid ongoing efforts by security forces to curb banditry and restore peace in Sokoto and other parts of the North-West.

Residents and government officials, including the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Col. Ahmad Usman, have previously commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained operations against criminal elements in the state.

By Fatima Abdulmalik

The Northwestern part of Nigeria has been plagued by heinous crimes, including banditry, cattle rustling, kidnappings, and the rise of Lakurawa criminal gangs. These gangs claim to fight for religious reasons, but their actions only bring suffering to innocent civilians. The question on everyone’s mind is: why does the North always seem to be at the epicenter of these atrocities? This cycle of violence is rooted in power and control dynamics, where the perpetrators exert dominance over the victims through coercion and manipulation.

The North’s struggles with violence and crime have become a recurring nightmare. It’s imperative that we acknowledge the complexity of this issue and the need for collective action. We must address the root causes of this violence, including poverty, lack of education, and social inequality. By providing access to quality education and economic opportunities, we can empower the youth and reduce the appeal of criminal gangs. Effective leadership and collaboration are crucial in safeguarding the North. Leaders must put aside their differences and work towards a common goal: protecting their people.

To safeguard the North, we need to invest in education, economic empowerment, and social welfare programs. Community leaders play a vital role in promoting peace and stability. They must speak out against violence and encourage their followers to do the same. By fostering a culture of tolerance and understanding, we can break the cycle of violence and build a more harmonious society. Security forces must intensify their efforts to combat crime and protect civilians. This includes intelligence gathering, strategic operations, and community engagement.

The youth are the future of the North, and it’s essential that we empower them with education, skills, and opportunities. By doing so, we can redirect their energy towards positive change and development. We must also address the economic and social factors that drive young people to join criminal gangs. This includes providing job opportunities, vocational training, and mentorship programme.

Understanding the cycle of abuse is crucial in addressing the North’s violence. The cycle consists of tension building, acute battering incident, and reconciliation. Recognizing these stages can help individuals and communities break free from the cycle of violence. Support from healthcare providers, professional counselors, and domestic violence organizations is vital in ending the cycle of abuse.


In conclusion, the North’s cry for help requires collective action from all stakeholders to address the overwhelming problems plaguing the region. It’s imperative that leaders, community members, organizations, and individuals put aside their differences and work towards a common goal: safeguarding the North. This collaborative effort will empower the youth, promote peace and stability, and break the cycle of violence. Effective stakeholder engagement is crucial in achieving this goal. By identifying and prioritizing key stakeholders, the North can develop a comprehensive plan to address the root causes of its problems.

This includes investing in education, economic empowerment, and social welfare programs. Community leaders must speak out against violence and encourage their followers to do the same, fostering a culture of tolerance and understanding. By addressing these areas, stakeholders can create a safer, more prosperous North. The international community must also support Nigeria’s efforts to address these challenges. Simply put, we can break the cycle of violence and build a brighter future for the North.


Fatima Abdulmalik, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, has called on Nigerians to stop describing him as a Hausa man.

Kukah clarified that although he is often labelled that way, his identity does not align with such a description. He made the statement during the 16th convocation ceremony of the university, held at its auditorium on Saturday.

He urged graduating students to maintain good character in their dealings with their parents, the university community, Anambra State, the South-East, and Nigeria at large.

He also commended the Anambra State Government for its investment in education, noting that the state continues to perform strongly in the sector when compared with other parts of the country.

Kukah said:

“I am a typical Nigerian from Anchuna, Ikulu Chiefdom in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, but not a Hausa man by origin. Nigerians should stop addressing me as a Hausa person.

“As the new Chancellor of this institution, we will not only strive to achieve the university’s goals, but surpass them.”

He expressed appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his appointment as Chancellor of the institution. The governor formally installed him during the ceremony.

Governor Soludo, in his remarks, expressed satisfaction while decorating Kukah as Chancellor. He said he believed the cleric’s experience and moral standing would strengthen the university.

Soludo said:

“It was a great honour to be present at the 16th Convocation Ceremony of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University as a visitor to this great institution.

“The ceremony was a celebration of excellence, hard work, and the power of quality education. It was also a reminder of the critical role universities play in training skilled manpower, shaping character, advancing knowledge, and preparing young people to contribute meaningfully to society.

“I was particularly delighted to decorate the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, as the new Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

“I am confident that his wisdom, experience, and moral leadership will further strengthen the vision and standing of the university.

“In recognition of exceptional academic achievement, I announced a ₦4 million cash gift to Somtochukwu Augustus Ume of the Economics Department, who emerged as the overall best graduating student at COOU’s 16th Convocation with an outstanding CGPA of 4.85 out of 5.0.

“I also offered scholarships to 37 first-class graduates of the university’s 16th Convocation to support their postgraduate studies up to the highest level at any public university of their choice.”

He further charged the institution to focus on producing solution-driven graduates rather than mere certificate holders.

“Our institutions of higher learning must go beyond awarding certificates; they must raise innovative, solution-driven, and globally competitive graduates who can respond to the challenges of our time.

“To the graduands, I urged them to seize the moment and emerge as beacons of hope, disruptive thinkers, and agents of change in society. The future belongs to those who are prepared to lead with courage, creativity, and purpose,” he added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A legal practitioner, Abdurrahman Muhammad Jariri, has accused personnel of the Nigerian Army of reckless conduct and intimidation, following an incident he said occurred in Sokoto.

Jariri made the allegation in a Facebook post, where he claimed that soldiers in a convoy acted aggressively while he was driving with a friend in the city.

According to him, the incident happened amid heavy traffic, when the military convoy approached from behind. He alleged that the soldiers shouted and applied pressure on road users to clear the way, despite the congestion.

Jariri stated that he could not immediately move his vehicle due to the traffic situation. He further alleged that the soldiers then rammed into his car.

He said, “Today in Sokoto, while I was driving my car with a friend, a convoy of soldiers suddenly approached us from behind, shouting, applying pressure, and wielding sticks, insisting that we must give way despite the heavy traffic and congestion on the road.”

He added, “Our inability to immediately clear the way due to the traffic situation did not deter them; instead, they deliberately rammed into my vehicle while continuing to shout aggressively.”

The lawyer described the action as reckless and inhumane. He claimed that such behaviour reflects a pattern of alleged abuse against civilians.

Jariri also announced his intention to seek legal redress against the Nigerian Army and its leadership.

“I will certainly take legal action against the Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff, and the respective military authorities in Sokoto and Kebbi States, in order to hold them accountable and teach them a lesson for the reckless and inhumane actions of their personnel,” he said.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official response to the allegations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian Army has strongly denied social media reports claiming an armed attack on the residence of Bishop Matthew Kukah and the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral, calling the allegations entirely false.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA said the viral Facebook post was misleading and baseless.

“There was no such attack in Sokoto State,” said Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the division. He confirmed that Bishop Kukah is currently carrying out his Easter duties without any disruption, and that security around both the Bishop and the cathedral remains intact.

The Army reiterated its commitment, alongside other security agencies, to protecting all residents in Sokoto State and its area of responsibility. “Robust security measures are in place to guarantee a peaceful and secure Easter celebration,” Osoba added.

Authorities have urged the public to disregard the false reports and refrain from spreading unverified information.