A notable figure among bandit leaders and a crucial enforcer of a precarious peace agreement in Jibia, Katsina State, Abdullahi Lantai—often referred to as 'Lantai Officer'—has been killed in a violent ambush attributed to a rival faction.
Sources within security circles informed Zagazola Makama that Lantai was executed on January 27, 2026, around 1:00 PM by gunmen suspected to be affiliated with the Bello Turji-led gang that operates across Sokoto and Zamfara states.
As per these sources, Lantai had been lured to what was purported to be a dialogue and reconciliation meeting following a clash of interests between his faction and the Turji group on January 24.
"The meeting was reportedly orchestrated by Turji and Aliyu Aliero to address the dispute. However, Lantai and several of his associates were ambushed and killed en route to the meeting site by members of the Turji network led by Dogo Rabe and Black," disclosed a source.
Initial investigations reveal Lantai's vital role in maintaining a fragile peace amongst bandit leaders in Jibia, achieved in collaboration with the Katsina State Government.
"He acted as a territorial sentinel who restricted Turji’s gang from mobilizing and navigating freely through the Jibia forest routes.
Moreover, he obstructed pathways used for the transportation of stolen cattle from Zamfara to Maradi in the Republic of Niger, thereby severely limiting Turji’s operational reach in that area," the source added.
Zagazola warns that this assassination could lead to a significant escalation of violence in the Jibia area and its surroundings.
"This act appears to be a deliberate power play. The Turji network is seemingly determined to eradicate a stabilizing figure and extend its influence, trafficking routes, and illicit activities into Katsina State," stated the source.
The threat level in the Jibia area has now been classified as high, with ample indications of potential retaliatory strikes from Lantai’s group and preemptive attacks by Turji’s forces seeking to solidify their grip.
Residents express concerns that the previously maintained calm in the region may unravel, giving way to renewed turmoil characterized by kidnappings, cattle rustling, and assaults on communities as rival factions vie for control.
According to insights from Zagazola, security agencies are actively reviewing the current conditions to deploy effective counteractions to avert a complete collapse of the fragile peace in the upcoming days.
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