Over 3,400 people fled from Gatakawa, Zurunkutu and DanNakwaguzo villages in Kankara Local Government Area and other parts of Katsina State to Kankara town in November due to the fear of attacks from armed groups, according to a report.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said the displaced persons arrived in Kankara town Nov. 26 and Nov. 27.
“Between the 26th and 27th of November, 2020 in Kankara LGA of Katsina State, there was a massive displacement of people in Gatakawa, Zurunkutu and Dan Nakwaguzo villages. An estimate of 3,472 individuals were reported to have arrived Kankara town with many immediate needs,” IOM reported.
“The key trigger for the population movement was attributed to recent increase in attacks and fear of attack in the ward. Twenty-six injuries and 10 casualties were reported.
“The new arrivals are in major need of shelter, food and sanitation kits, ” it stated.
The organisation explained that: “As a result of frequent attacks in the North West/ North Central zones, many residents have departed their homes for safety in nearby camps and host communities where there is provision for security.”
Violence in Sokoto, Kaduna, Kebbi, Niger, Zamfara and Katsina states has displaced over 160,000 internally and caused about 41,000 more to flee to Maradi in neighbouring Niger Republic.
In addition to displacement, the violence in Northwest has hampered agricultural activities and heightened the risk of acute food insecurity in the region.
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