Youths in Shagari Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State say they are ready to arm themselves against bandits after repeated attacks and kidnappings.
The decision followed an online meeting, with details released on Thursday in a statement by youth activist Bello Shagari, grandson of former President Shehu Shagari.
They accused the government of failing to protect lives and property, noting that attacks have displaced families, halted farming, and left villages living in fear.
Mr Shagari said the youths had taken “a last-resort decision” to defend their communities.
“The government has done little to protect us. We cannot sit idle while our people suffer. Self-defence may be our only remaining option,” he said.
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The group urged both the Sokoto State and Federal Governments to send more security personnel immediately, warning that further delays could push the area into lawlessness..
In a recent attack in Shagari LGA that reportedly lasted for three consecutive days, a cleric was abducted and five persons were killed.
Following the outcry, it is reported that Sokoto State has witnessed mass attacks and recurring killings since 2018, with data showing that a total of 39 persons were murdered, while 49 persons were murdered in their various residences in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Sokoto and neighbouring states, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi, have faced years of banditry marked by killings, abductions and raids. Security operations such as Operation Hadarin Daji have failed to stop the violence.
Analysts warn that local armed groups could worsen clashes, as seen in Zamfara and Katsina where vigilantes known as Yan Sakai triggered reprisals.
