Residents of Maganda Village, situated in Magajin Gari Ward III of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area in Kaduna State, are fleeing their homes after security personnel withdrew from the area, raising fears of potential attacks by bandits.
The security personnel, previously stationed in the community to protect villagers from bandit attacks, reportedly left last Saturday without providing any prior notice, causing confusion and panic among the locals.
Ismail A. Ahmed, a resident and former councillor who evacuated his family stated his concern to Daily Trust about the security vacuum.
He reported that following the departure of the security personnel, bandits invaded the community, moving from house to house, seizing phones and money without encountering resistance.
“I left with my family because we are not safe. Most people left their crops behind and departed with minimal belongings to save their lives because the bandits entered house after house, confiscating phones and money from people,” Ahmed said.
Many villagers have abandoned their homes, leaving behind farm crops and possessions due to the perceived threat from the bandits.
The sudden withdrawal of security personnel has heightened the vulnerability of the community.
Ishaq Usman Kasai, Chairman of Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Union, confirmed the incident and appealed to the government, particularly military authorities, to promptly redeploy personnel to the area for the protection of innocent villagers.
