Panic has gripped parts of Zamfara State following the withdrawal of security personnel from Lilo village in Mada district of Gusau Local Government Area, forcing residents of more than 30 surrounding communities to abandon their homes in search of safety. The troops, who had maintained a presence in the area for over seven years, were reportedly evacuated late at night, leaving communities exposed to possible bandit attacks.
The mass exodus began shortly after the soldiers departed, with residents citing fears of imminent violence. The troops were initially deployed in June 2019 and had provided consistent protection, helping to maintain relative peace despite the proximity of several bandit camps in the region. Reports indicate that the withdrawal involved armoured vehicles and was carried out amid concerns over potential ambushes, particularly as the rainy season approaches and access routes become more difficult.
Many of the affected communities had previously relocated to Lilo for safety due to persistent insecurity in the Mada axis, stretching toward Gusami Gora and Birnin Magaji. The absence of security forces has heightened fears among residents, who believe they may now be targeted for refusing to cooperate with armed groups in the past. Displaced persons are said to be moving toward Gusau, the state capital, in hopes of receiving urgent government assistance despite suggestions to settle in nearer locations.
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The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the development and says immediate steps have been taken to address the situation. Authorities deployed a tactical team supported by armoured vehicles to the area, with officials reporting that calm has been restored. Residents, however, remain anxious as they await sustained security measures to guarantee their safety and enable a possible return to their communities.
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