Security agencies have arrested the village head of Azare community in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, Lawan Ganga, and his two sons over alleged involvement in terrorism-related activities and repeated attacks on communities in Gujba and Gulani.
The suspects, identified as Gambo Lawal Ganga and Ibrahim Lawal Ganga, were reportedly arrested on September 18, 2026, following a manhunt for members of an alleged criminal network linked to the violence.
Several other suspected members of the group are reportedly still at large.
Sources familiar with the investigation said information obtained from the suspects could help investigators identify those who allegedly financed, sponsored or facilitated the attacks.
There are also allegations that politically influential individuals may be attempting to secure the release of some suspects.
The claims, however, have not been independently verified.
The arrests have renewed attention on repeated attacks against Zango community in Gulani Local Government Area, which residents said began in June 2024.
Community sources alleged that the violence was partly motivated by attempts to seize farmland belonging to residents.
They claimed that more than 25 people had been killed or injured in the attacks, which reportedly involved killings, abductions, injuries and destruction of property.
One of the major incidents occurred on August 9, 2025, when armed men allegedly attacked the community, killing several residents and seriously injuring others.
Personnel of the Bara Divisional Police Station in Gulani were reportedly deployed after the attack.
They allegedly recovered victims’ bodies and evacuated injured residents to Damaturu General Hospital.
A subsequent manhunt reportedly led to the arrest of Lawan Aliyu Ganga, described in the source account as a suspected ring leader. His relationship with the recently arrested Lawan Ganga remains unclear and requires confirmation.
The reported attacks date back to June 12–14, 2024, when residents allegedly suffered killings, injuries and looting.
On July 16, 2024, a community elder, Audu Wanzam, was reportedly attacked near a well known as Rijiyar Audu Wanzam while working on his farm. Another attack was allegedly recorded on July 19.
On November 7, 2024, several residents were reportedly abducted and taken to an unknown destination, with ransom demands subsequently made.
Community sources also reported another major attack in June 2025, followed by the August 9 incident.
The repeated violence has raised questions about the response of traditional institutions and local government authorities.
Community sources said reports of the attacks were brought to the attention of the Gujba Emirate Council and the local government authorities in Gujba and Gulani.
The emirate is headed by Alhaji (Dr.) Mai Mukhtar Ibn Ali, the Emir of Gujba.
Residents are demanding clarification on the steps taken to address the violence and protect affected communities.
They also alleged that Lawan Aliyu Ganga threatened to seize their farmland and warned that the head of Zango community would be brought before his palace if residents refused to comply.
The allegations have not been independently established, and the suspects are entitled to the presumption of innocence.
Residents are calling on security agencies to widen the investigation, identify those who allegedly planned and financed the attacks, trace the weapons used and determine whether anyone attempted to obstruct the investigation.
With several suspects reportedly still at large, the community hopes the arrests will lead to accountability for those found culpable and stronger protection for lives, property and farmland in the affected areas.