The Kebbi Development Forum has called for urgent security reforms following the killing of at least 33 people in an attack by suspected Lakurawa bandits on eight communities in Arewa Local Government Area of the state.

Residents said the assailants also rustled cattle during the assault, described as one of the deadliest incidents recorded in the area in recent months.

The attack adds to a series of bandit-related violence affecting border communities in Kebbi.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Chairman, Saidu Illo, the forum urged authorities to adopt a more coordinated and decentralised security approach to address the growing insecurity.

It said local institutions, including traditional rulers and local government authorities, should be strengthened to support community-based security efforts.

The group also raised concerns over reported threats in parts of Koko-Besse and Ngaski local government areas, warning that failure to act promptly could worsen tensions in affected communities.

It called for stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and neighbouring countries to curb cross-border criminal activities.