Sokoto Herbalist Laments Loss of His Monkey and Hyena After Militant Attack

A traditional herbalist in Sokoto State has recounted how his livelihood was destroyed when militants killed his trained monkey and hyena—animals he used to attract customers and entertain the public.

Nafiu Umar said the Lakurawa terrorist group targeted his practice, declaring it forbidden under their strict religious code. "They killed my monkey and hyena, which I used to entertain people and attract customers," he explained. The loss forced him to abandon public performances and resort to discreetly visiting a small circle of clients, drastically reducing his income.

Umar’s story highlights how extremist violence erodes not only security but also cultural practices and local economies in northern Nigeria. Following recent U.S. airstrikes on militant camps, some residents have experienced a fragile sense of relief as insurgents have reportedly fled the area.

However, for Umar, rebuilding remains uncertain. Restoring his unique trade would require replacing his animals and overcoming the persistent fear that the militants could return.