Many people are feared killed and properties destroyed following a violent clash between security operatives and residents of Katai and Fauda villages in Wudil Local Government Area of Kano State.

Residents said the crisis was triggered by a land dispute between some villagers and a Fulani traditional leader, who allegedly laid claim to land belonging to indigenous Hausa families.

Tensions escalated after the villagers reportedly refused to relinquish the land.

Community sources said the situation worsened following a night raid by armed men believed to be security operatives.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers, dressed in mufti, stormed the villages and opened fire, causing panic among residents who initially mistook them for bandits.

In response, villagers reportedly mobilised using local weapons, leading to a confrontation during which one resident was shot.

The villagers were said to have overpowered one of the attackers and killed him, believing he was a bandit.

Authorities later identified the deceased as a security operative, further heightening tensions.

Sources alleged that security personnel subsequently launched a reprisal operation, resulting in more casualties and the burning of houses, forcing many residents to flee.

The Chairman of Wudil LGA, Abba Muhammad Tukur, confirmed the incident and described it as tragic.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Abba Darki, he assured residents that investigations were ongoing and justice would be served without fear or favour.

Efforts to reach the Kano Police spokesperson, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, were unsuccessful, while the affected communities remain tense.