Kebbi Government Raises Alarm Over Emergence of New Terrorist Group‘Sai Mallam’

The Kebbi State Government has expressed concern over the growing presence of a newly identified extremist group known as the ‘Sai Mallam’ sect, particularly in parts of Argungu Local Government Area.

The State Security Adviser, retired Colonel Danladi Ribah, disclosed this during a security stakeholders’ meeting with the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the North-West geopolitical zone, Suleiman Mohammed Abdul, held at the Presidential Lodge in Birnin Kebbi.

Ribah revealed that the group was initially spotted in limited numbers within Zuru Emirate before expanding its activities into Argungu, where it has reportedly established a more significant presence.

He explained that intelligence reports indicate the sect first surfaced in neighbouring Sokoto State, where security agencies successfully curtailed its operations before members began appearing in Kebbi.

The security adviser assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, has intensified efforts to prevent the group’s expansion and neutralise any emerging security threats.

According to Ribah, Governor Nasir Idris has continued to strengthen the state’s security architecture by providing operational logistics, financial assistance, and other necessary resources to security agencies combating banditry, the Lakurawa group, Mamudawa elements, and other criminal networks.

He further stated that Lakurawa fighters infiltrate Kebbi through Sokoto State and the Republic of Niger, while members of the Mamudawa group gain access through Niger and Kwara states. In addition, he noted that armed bandits responsible for attacks in Kebbi frequently operate from neighbouring Zamfara State.

Ribah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that all necessary measures would continue to be taken to maintain peace and security across the state.

Also speaking at the meeting, the District Head of Ambursa, Alhaji Isa Haruna Rasheed, appealed for increased funding for police commands to improve operational capacity, logistics, and the welfare of security personnel deployed across the state.