Terror Threat: Boko Haram Demands N100million ‘Zakat’ From Kebbi Community, Warns Army Cannot Stop Planned Attack

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State– Suspected members of Boko Haram have issued a threat to residents of Utono community in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, announcing plans to launch an attack and demanding a “zakat” payment of N100million in cash before their arrival.

The terrorists, in a letter written in Hausa language, obtained by Afrika Eyes, dated February 17, 2026, allegedly warned the community that they would storm the area at any time to collect the money, insisting that the funds must be gathered in advance at the palace of the district head.

The insurgents also vowed that the Nigerian Army would be unable to stop them, threatening severe consequences if residents failed to comply with their demands.

According to sources within the community, the letter was addressed to the district head and circulated among residents, creating widespread panic as locals feared an imminent attack.

The terrorists claimed they were fighters of “Jannatul Ahlussunna Lidda’awa wal Jihad,” a name associated with Boko Haram, and warned residents not to attempt to flee, stating that anyone who tried to escape would be dealt with.

The statement read, “Peace be upon you, the entire community living in the surrounding areas. We are informing you that the fighters of Jannatul Ahlussunna Lidda’awa wal Jihad are sending you this message of warning.

“From now on, starting immediately, even if it is in the daytime, do not attempt to run away or flee. By the will of Allah, we will come whether it rains or not, whether it is morning or night. We will enter the town and go straight to the palace of the district head. The district head should announce to the people that they must gather and prepare our zakat payment in cash amounting to one hundred million naira before we arrive. The money should be gathered in advance.

“Furthermore, anyone who owns cattle must prepare them for zakat. Every cattle owner, whether male or female, must bring all cattle from the bush back home so they can be counted. We have been informed that there are some people from your area who are outside in other towns and are wealthy. You should inform them and tell them to send their financial contributions so that the total required amount can be completed.

“If anything happens and you fail to comply, you should blame yourselves because you have refused to support and assist us. Even if you call soldiers, they cannot stop us from entering. Also, there are wealthy people who do not give zakat, both men and women. They should prepare themselves, as we will enforce punishment on them.

“We are coming. Peace be upon you.”

Residents of Utono and surrounding settlements were said to be in fear following the circulation of the letter, with many reportedly considering fleeing the area despite the warning from the terrorists not to do so.

Local sources explained that the demand for N100million and cattle has created anxiety in the community, where many depend on livestock and farming for survival.

Community members expressed concern that the terrorists appeared confident and emboldened, particularly in their claim that soldiers would not be able to stop them from entering the town.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from security agencies or the Kebbi State Government regarding the threat or measures being taken to protect residents of Utono community from the looming attack.