From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State has emerged as a major hotspot of insecurity, as persistent banditry continues to disrupt daily life across Sokoto East Senatorial District.
The area is among eight local government councils in the zone currently witnessing a surge in violent attacks, raising concerns among residents and authorities.
Chairman of Wurno LGA, Alhaji Abba Isa Sadiq-Achida, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation, describing it as alarming and unbearable for the people.
“This unfortunate situation has become a serious concern not only for the citizens of Wurno LGA, but also for the Sokoto State Government, the Federal Government, and various security, paramilitary, and volunteer agencies,” he said while speaking to journalists in Sokoto on Friday.
According to him, bandit attacks have become almost a daily occurrence, leaving residents in constant fear.
“The activities of bandits are now a daily affair in many parts of my local government. People can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed,” he lamented.
Sadiq-Achida disclosed that numerous lives have been lost and properties destroyed in recent years due to the incessant attacks.
“The killings and abductions are overwhelming. As we speak, no fewer than 100 innocent people are currently in the custody of bandits across the LGA,” he added.
He further revealed that thousands of displaced residents now seek refuge in Achida town, which has become a temporary safe haven.
“Many people leave their homes every evening to sleep in Achida and return during the day. They sleep in primary schools and any available open spaces. The psychological and emotional trauma they face daily is unimaginable,” he said.
The chairman also raised concerns over the growing trend of bandits blocking major roads, particularly during market days along Achida and Goronyo routes, thereby restricting movement and economic activities.
He attributed part of the challenge to the activities of informants, whom he accused of aiding the criminals.
However, he noted that communities are increasingly supporting security efforts through intelligence sharing and the formation of vigilante groups.
“Our people are rising to the challenge. They are cooperating with security agencies and forming vigilante groups, while the state-sponsored Community Guards are also playing significant roles despite the challenges,” he stated.
While commending Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for ongoing efforts to address insecurity, the chairman called for more decisive and urgent interventions.
He specifically appealed for the establishment of a military super camp in Achida, as well as additional police divisions and outposts in key locations including Achida, Kwargaba, and Chacho.
“These security formations must be adequately staffed and equipped to function effectively,” he emphasized.
Sadiq-Achida also disclosed that the local government is currently renovating the Achida Police Outpost to improve its capacity.
Responding to the concerns, the Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, assured residents that the command is fully aware of the situation and is taking steps to address it.
“We are not handling the situation with kid gloves. Plans are underway to deploy more personnel and resources to restore normalcy,” he said.
He added that the police remain committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Recent incidents underscore the gravity of the situation. On April 17, 2026, Achida town came under attack around 11 p.m., resulting in the killing of two residents and the abduction of 23 others, including women, a 10-year-old boy, and vigilantes.
Similarly, Chacho village was attacked shortly before a wedding ceremony, with the bride, bridesmaids, and nine other women abducted.
Community leaders revealed that the village has suffered nearly 10 attacks in the past five years, with over 30 fatalities recorded.
Residents describe Wurno as a “perennial hotspot,” where vigilantes are often outgunned and poor mobile network coverage hampers emergency responses.
They are now calling for the establishment of permanent military and police formations to deter further attacks, noting that recent raids appear coordinated, with armed groups monitoring town outskirts while others carry out operations.
As of the time of filing this report, dozens of residents remain in captivity, with no confirmed ransom demands reported.