A shocking and disturbing twist has emerged from Zamfara State after armed bandits reportedly killed two prominent local government officials over allegations of secret dealings with a rival terrorist group.
The victims, identified as Habibu Jangebe, a councillor representing Jangebe Ward, and Alhaji Jamilu Sani, Director of Planning for Talata-Mafara Local Government Area, were allegedly abducted and later executed by bandits following accusations that they were facilitating monthly payments to the notorious Lakurawa group.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the two officials were allegedly responsible for delivering funds on behalf of the local government to Lakurawa militants in a bid to prevent attacks on communities within the area. However, the arrangement reportedly sparked anger among other armed groups who felt sidelined and excluded from the alleged financial benefits.
Insiders claim the bandits became furious after learning that Lakurawa fighters were allegedly receiving regular payments while their own faction received nothing. The resentment reportedly escalated into threats against local government authorities before the two officials were kidnapped around May 18, 2026.
Reports indicate that the victims were travelling from Jangebe to the Talata-Mafara council headquarters to make preparations for the recent pilgrimage exercise when they were intercepted and taken away by gunmen. After spending about 10 days in captivity, they were allegedly killed in what many believe was a brutal message to local authorities.
Adding another layer of controversy, sources alleged that the bandits had also threatened the chairman of the local government, Yahaya Yari, accusing him of favouring the Lakurawa group while neglecting other armed factions operating in the region.
Reacting to the tragic incident, Chairman Yahaya Yari strongly denied the allegations. He described the killings as heartbreaking and rejected claims that the council was sponsoring or negotiating with any terrorist group.
According to him, the local government has never entered into any arrangement with terrorists, regardless of their identity. He clarified that the only group receiving support from the council is the Civilian Joint Task Force from Borno State, which has been assisting security agencies in the fight against banditry and insecurity in the area.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the worsening security crisis in Zamfara, with residents demanding answers as violence continues to claim lives across affected communities.
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