Halima Ubale, a displaced resident of Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, has appealed to the government to restore security in her community, saying persistent bandit attacks have forced residents to abandon their homes and livelihoods.
Ubale made the appeal during an interview on Trust TV, on Thursday, 4 June, 2026, where she recounted the ordeal faced by families who fled their villages following repeated attacks by armed bandits. Her comments highlight the continuing humanitarian challenges confronting communities in parts of northwestern Nigeria affected by insecurity.
According to her, many residents had no option but to escape when the attacks intensified and life became unbearable. Despite leaving behind their homes, farmlands, and personal belongings, she said the displaced people have been unable to return because of fears over their safety.
“Bandits chased us from our community. We ran for our lives when the attack became unbearable. Our homes and farms are still there but we cannot go back,” Ubale said.
She explained that farming, the main source of livelihood for many families in the area, has been disrupted as residents remain displaced. The situation, she noted, has left many households struggling to survive while living away from their ancestral homes.
Ubale urged authorities to take decisive action against criminal elements operating in the area and create conditions that would allow displaced persons to return safely. She stressed that residents are eager to rebuild their lives but cannot do so without adequate security guarantees.
“We are begging the government to rescue our community so we can return home and live in peace,” she added.