Kebbi Raises Alarm Over New ‘Sai Mallam’ Terrorist Group

By Queen Madaki

The Kebbi State Government has raised fresh security concerns following the emergence of a new terrorist group identified as the ‘Sai Mallam’ sect in parts of the state, with authorities confirming a significant presence in Argungu Local Government Area.

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

Group First Detected in Zuru

Ribah said intelligence reports initially revealed the presence of the group in Zuru, where only a few members were identified. However, he noted that the sect has now established a much stronger presence in Argungu.

“Without an iota of doubt, ‘Sai Mallam’ adherents are present in large numbers in Argungu. They were earlier detected in Zuru, though in smaller numbers,” Ribah stated.

According to him, the sect was first identified in neighbouring Sokoto State, where security agencies successfully curtailed its activities before it surfaced in Kebbi.

Government Intensifies Security Efforts

The Security Adviser assured residents that the Kebbi State Government is collaborating closely with security agencies to contain the emerging threat and prevent the group from expanding its operations.

He said Governor Nasir Idris has continued to provide substantial logistical, financial and material support to security agencies to strengthen ongoing operations against criminal groups operating within and around the state.

These include bandits, the Lakurawa group, the Mamudawa network and other violent criminal elements.

Cross-Border Security Challenges

Ribah explained that members of the Lakurawa group infiltrate Kebbi through Sokoto State and the Republic of Niger, while the Mamudawa group gains access through Kwara and Niger states.

He further disclosed that many bandit attacks carried out in Kebbi are launched from neighbouring Zamfara State, highlighting the regional dimension of the security challenge.

“Kebbi State Government is on top of the situation and will continue to do whatever is necessary to safeguard the lives and property of the people,” Ribah assured.

Call for Greater Support to Police

Also speaking at the meeting, the District Head of Ambursa, Alhaji Isa Haruna Rasheed, appealed for increased funding for police commands operating in the state.

He said additional resources would improve operational efficiency, strengthen security operations and enhance the welfare of police personnel deployed to combat insecurity across Kebbi.

The renewed concerns come amid sustained efforts by security agencies to tackle terrorism, banditry and cross-border criminal activities affecting several states in northwestern Nigeria.