Some displaced residents of Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State have lamented increased banditry in the area, saying their family members are undertaking huge risks to move to Niger Republic. According to him, over 20 settlements across different parts of the local government area have been evacuated in response to the threats. In separate interviews with our correspondents, former residents said their relatives and family members were fleeing to Niger Republic. He said the worsening situation had forced many residents to flee to neighbouring Niger Republic through difficult and unsafe routes. Shinkafi, now in Zamfara State, was once part of Isa Local Government.

Source: Punch January 17, 2026 01:28 UTC