Fear grips Kebbi farming communities as armed groups demand N40m levy
Bandits Demand N40 Million from Farmers in Kebbi State
Bandits have reportedly demanded N40 million from farmers in several communities within the Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State as a prerequisite for accessing their farmlands in the lead-up to the current farming season.
The situation was highlighted on Saturday by security analyst and crisis journalist Bakastine, who expressed concerns about the ongoing vulnerability of rural communities in the region through a post on X.
This coercive demand has generated widespread panic among residents, prompting some families to flee their homes out of fear of potential attacks. Others remain hesitant to return to their farmlands due to the threats posed by armed groups.
Sources within the affected communities indicate that the unrest has exacerbated tensions in an area already plagued by insecurity and a limited security presence.
Observers note that this development is indicative of a troubling trend in parts of North-West Nigeria, where armed groups often impose levies on rural communities before allowing agricultural activities. Locally, this practice is referred to as “taxation” or “peace arrangements.”
Reports suggest that these arrangements have not resulted in lasting peace, but rather intensified cycles of intimidation and forced compliance among residents.
Security analysts caution that the continued payment of such levies could empower armed groups, increasing their influence over rural areas and jeopardizing agricultural productivity and food security.
Bakastine raised further concerns regarding the effectiveness of current security measures, questioning who truly controls these communities if farmers must pay bandits to use their land.
As of now, security operatives have not issued an official statement on the matter, leaving the future of the affected communities uncertain.
