By SUNTV Global Channel | June 26, 2026
A newly emerged armed group known as “Sai Mallam” has reportedly imposed a monthly levy of ₦5 million on at least 10 rural communities in Kebbi State, threatening violent attacks and the seizure of farmlands if residents fail to comply.
According to multiple community sources, the group has established a presence in parts of the Argungu and Zuru Emirates after allegedly relocating to Kebbi during the first quarter of 2026.
The affected communities include Alwasa, Danba, Sarkin Gobir, Unwara and Zazzagawa in Argungu Emirate, as well as Zodi, Tadurga, Senchi, Ciroman and Dabai in Zuru Emirate.
Residents claimed the armed group summoned community leaders and ordered them to provide ₦5 million every month, warning that any refusal would result in attacks on villages and the takeover of farmlands.
Community members also alleged that the group has been recruiting vulnerable youths by offering monthly stipends, food supplies and preaching extremist ideologies. Some residents claimed many of those recruited are Almajiri children and youths from neighbouring countries, including Niger Republic and Chad.
The allegations come days after the Kebbi State Government publicly acknowledged the presence of the “Sai Mallam” group in parts of the state.
Speaking during a security town hall meeting, the state’s Security Adviser, Retired Colonel Danladi Ribah, confirmed that members of the group had been identified in significant numbers, particularly within Argungu, adding that security agencies were working to contain the emerging threat.
Ribah also noted that Kebbi continues to face attacks from several armed groups operating across neighbouring states and international borders, including Lakurawa, Mamudawa, and armed bandits.
Despite government assurances, residents say fear continues to grow across the affected communities, urging the Federal Government to deploy additional military personnel before the group expands its operations further.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities have not publicly responded to the specific allegations that the group is collecting monthly levies from affected communities.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
