Fear and uncertainty have reportedly swept across several farming communities in Kebbi State after armed groups allegedly demanded a staggering N40 million payment from local farmers before allowing them to cultivate their lands this farming season.
The alarming development is said to be affecting communities in Bena, located within Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, where residents now face a difficult choice between paying the demanded levy or risking possible attacks.
The situation was brought to public attention by security analyst and conflict journalist Bakastine, who disclosed the incident through a post on X. According to reports, the demand has triggered widespread panic, with some families already abandoning their homes out of fear, while many farmers remain unsure whether it is safe to return to their fields.
Sources within the affected communities revealed that tensions have continued to rise as residents grapple with persistent insecurity and what they describe as inadequate security presence in the area. Many fear that the latest demand could worsen an already fragile situation.
Observers say the incident reflects a troubling trend across parts of Nigeria’s North-West, where armed groups allegedly impose various forms of levies on rural communities before permitting farming and other economic activities. Locals often refer to these payments as “peace deals” or informal taxation.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that yielding to such demands could strengthen criminal networks, increase their influence over vulnerable communities, and pose serious threats to agricultural production and food security.
Reacting to the reports, Bakastine questioned who truly holds authority in communities where farmers must allegedly seek permission from armed groups before accessing their own farmlands.
“Asking farmers to pay bandits before they can cultivate their land raises serious questions about who is really in control,” he reportedly stated.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations, leaving many residents anxious about what lies ahead as the farming season approaches.
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