ALLEGED VICTIM DESCRIBE LIFE UNDER BANDIT RULE IN PARTS OF KADUNA COMMUNITIES. (PHOTO).

 Alleged Victim Describe Life Under Bandit Rule In Parts Of Kaduna Communities

A resident of a community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State has alleged that villagers have been living under the control of armed bandits for nearly three years following repeated attacks that forced the community into an agreement with the criminal group.

The account, shared by journalist Reuben Buhari, describes what are alleged to be severe restrictions imposed on residents, including limitations on movement, farming, communication, and ownership of personal property. The identity of the resident and the name of the community were withheld for security reasons.

According to the testimony, women in the community have allegedly been subjected to repeated sexual violence by the bandits, while their husbands are reportedly threatened with death if they resist. The witness claimed that bandits use objects such as blankets or sticks placed outside homes to signal their intention to occupy a family's residence.

The resident further alleged that villagers are prohibited from leaving the community without permission and risk being killed if they attempt to escape. He claimed residents are searched if found carrying bags, are not allowed to own mobile phones, torchlights, machetes or new motorcycles, and are required to surrender a quarter of their farm produce to the armed group.

According to the account, young men are allegedly forced to assist the bandits during kidnapping and cattle rustling operations, while religious gatherings are said to be restricted depending on the presence of the armed group.

The witness also claimed that public services, including schools and primary healthcare centres, have ceased to function after teachers and health workers fled the affected communities. He alleged that the bandits occasionally execute residents to intimidate others and enforce compliance.

Reuben Buhari further claimed that more than 20 communities in Kajuru LGA, about 30 communities in Kachia LGA, and several others in Chikun LGA are living under similar arrangements with armed bandits, although he noted that the conditions vary from one community to another.

The allegations could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report. Kaduna State authorities have not publicly responded to the specific claims contained in the account. However, parts of southern Kaduna have experienced recurring incidents of banditry, kidnappings and violent attacks in recent years, prompting repeated security operations by government forces.