Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have reportedly returned to communities in Jega Local Government Area of Kebbi State, abducting dozens of residents and demanding ₦200 million for their release.

The renewed attacks on Alelu, Kimba and Jandutsi have forced families to abandon their homes and seek refuge in Jega town, where many are struggling to find accommodation, food and other basic necessities.

According to a SaharaReporters report published on October 13, 2026, residents said the armed men invaded their communities, opened fire and abducted women, children and other residents from their homes.

Estimates of the number of abductees varied, with some residents putting the figure at more than 60 and others estimating about 80.

A community representative said some abductees had reportedly been released following negotiations or other interventions, while others remained in captivity. The reported ₦200 million ransom demand could not be independently verified.

Attacks Resume After Governor’s Visit

The renewed violence reportedly occurred after Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris visited Alelu to commiserate with residents over the area’s security challenges.

Residents said the suspected attackers returned after the visit, triggering further fear and forcing more families to flee.

A displaced woman told the publication that gunmen attacked her household, abducted members of her family and killed residents. She said the attackers had threatened to continue tormenting the community.

The woman also described the hardship residents had endured over the years, saying insecurity had prevented many from farming and earning a living.

Another resident said the gunmen attacked during the day, firing their weapons and forcing people to escape.

The repeated attacks have left residents uncertain about their safety and the whereabouts of relatives who were taken away.

Residents Report Killings and Injuries

Residents gave varying accounts of the number of people killed during the attacks.

An elderly resident estimated that between five and six people had died, while a community representative gave a similar estimate and said three others were receiving medical attention.

The casualty figures could not be independently verified.

Some abductees were reportedly released after negotiations and other interventions. According to a community representative, about 34 people were released after motorcycles and guns were allegedly returned to the abductors.

However, other victims were said to remain in captivity.

The reported circumstances surrounding the releases and the ransom demand were not independently confirmed.

Displaced Families Appeal for Assistance

The attacks have disrupted farming and trading, leaving many displaced families without their usual sources of income.

Residents who fled to Jega said they were struggling to secure shelter and provide food for their families while searching for missing relatives.

A community representative appealed to the Kebbi State Government to provide temporary accommodation, food and other essential assistance for the displaced population.

The representative also called for intensified security operations to prevent further attacks and secure the release of those still being held.

The chairman of Jega East, identified as Mika’ilu, visited the displaced residents to assess their situation and offer assistance. He also appealed to Governor Idris to strengthen security in the area and surrounding communities to enable residents to return home safely.

The affected families are seeking urgent government intervention to restore security, reunite them with abducted relatives and provide support for those forced to abandon their homes.