Panic has gripped parts of Zamfara State following the sudden withdrawal of security operatives from Lilo village in Mada district of Gusau Local Government Area, forcing residents of over 30 communities to flee their homes amid fears of renewed bandit attacks.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the mass displacement began late at night after troops, who had been stationed in the area for more than seven years, were evacuated without prior notice, leaving the communities exposed.
A resident of Lilo, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, said the departure of the troops sparked widespread fear among villagers who had relied heavily on their presence for protection.
“We fled because we are afraid of imminent attacks. The troops have been our only source of security all these years,” he said.
According to the source, the military personnel were initially deployed to the area in June 2019 under the administration of former governor Bello Matawalle, following persistent banditry in the region.
He disclosed that over 60 personnel drawn from various security agencies had been stationed in Lilo, providing a buffer against attacks and enabling displaced persons from neighbouring communities to seek refuge there.
“Their presence ensured relative peace. People from more than 30 villages moved here because it was safer,” he added.
The resident revealed that the troops were withdrawn around 10 p.m., using two Armoured Personnel Carriers and a Toyota Hilux van.
He further claimed that one of the officers hinted that the withdrawal was prompted by fears of possible ambushes, particularly with the onset of the rainy season, which could hinder access to the community and delay reinforcements.
He recalled a previous incident during the rainy season when six security personnel were killed in an ambush after backup failed to arrive due to poor road conditions.
“We are surrounded by bandit camps, some less than three kilometres away. Some of them have even taken over our farmlands,” he said.
Describing the relationship between the villagers and the troops as cordial, the source said residents provided logistical support, including food, water, firewood and farmland for cultivation.
“We supported them in every way. During festive periods, we even contributed animals for celebrations. That cooperation helped keep the peace,” he said.
He warned that the withdrawal had now left the communities dangerously exposed.
“If the bandits attack now, they will burn down everything and kill people. That is why everyone is running,” he added.
Findings indicate that many of the displaced residents are heading towards Gusau, the state capital, despite attempts by authorities to redirect them to nearby towns such as Keita and Kwatarkwashi.
“The district head advised that we move to Gusau so the government can respond faster to our plight,” the source said.
When contacted, the Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the development, saying it had taken steps to address the situation.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the Commissioner of Police, A.M. Bello, had ordered the immediate deployment of a tactical team to the area.
“We have deployed a police tactical unit supported by two Armoured Personnel Carriers. Our men are on ground, and normalcy has been restored,” he stated.
