An armed group leader, Abdu Lankai, who played a key role in enforcing a local peace arrangement in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, has been killed under circumstances that are already stirring concerns about renewed violence in the area.
The killing was disclosed on Wednesday by Bakatsine, a journalist known for reporting on conflict and insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest, in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter).
According to Bakatsine, Lankai was reportedly captured on Tuesday afternoon during a reconciliation meeting with rival commanders identified as Dogo Rabe and Black. Both commanders are said to be linked to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.
“Sources confirm the killing of Abdu Lankai, an armed group leader central to enforcing a local peace arrangement in Jibia LGA, Katsina State,” Bakatsine wrote.
He added that Lankai was seized during what was meant to be a reconciliation meeting and was later executed.
“He was reportedly captured yesterday afternoon during a reconciliation meeting with rival commanders Dogo Rabe and Black, both linked to Bello Turji, and later executed,” the post stated.
Lankai’s role in the local peace deal had been seen as critical to maintaining relative calm in Jibia, an area that has witnessed repeated bouts of banditry and armed clashes in recent years. His death has now cast doubt on the sustainability of the agreement.
“With Lankai gone, can Jibia’s fragile calm hold or does this mark the collapse of the peace deal?” Bakatsine queried, highlighting widespread fears among residents and observers.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies or the Katsina State Government regarding the incident.
About The Author
