蜜芽传媒

For almost three months the residents of Zamfara state in north-west Nigeria have been living without internet or any phone connection. The authorities shut down communications in an effort to stem the lawlessness in the region.... so what's been the impact and has it made the area more safe?

Yusuf Anka is a local journalist from Zamfara state who spoke to us - on a very poor line - from neighbouring Kaduna state.

He says that not only have local people been unable to phone for help when they've been attacked, the bandits have also turned to more basic means to demand ransoms.

"The bandits are even sending letters demanding money... in some cases they put written notes to say if you don't raise two million before the next morning we are likely to come and attack you."

(Photo: hand holding a phone. Credit: Getty Images)