Some displaced residents of Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State have lamented increased banditry in the area, saying their family members are undertaking huge risks to move to Niger Republic.
They told reporters that their relatives fled to the West African country following renewed threats and attacks by gunmen loyal to the notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji.
A video clip that circulated on social media during the week showed residents fleeing the affected communities.
The clip has since been confirmed by local authorities.
The Secretary of the Sokoto Eastern Zone Development Association, Professor Muazu Shamaki, said the exodus began last Friday after Turji issued threats to settlements around Tidibali, a community within the council.
“People in the local government area received threats from bandits. Since last Friday, many residents have been rushing to the local government headquarters to lodge complaints,” he stated.
According to him, over 20 settlements across different parts of the local government area have been evacuated in response to the threats.
