Some residents of Dansadau Emirate in Zamfara State say they can not access their farms as a result of the activities of bandits who have taken over their lands.
Some villagers also say they have to pay levies for the bandits to allow them to cultivate their farms, especially during this year’s rainy season.
They revealed that some villages had to pay N20 million Naira as levy, even as they demand more, to allow them to farm.
Dansadau Emirate is one of the frontlines of banditry activities in Zamfara State, Northwest Nigeria.
The Kuyabana Forest is located in the Dansadau Emirate, and it is said to be a hideout for criminals who unleash terror on innocent citizens of the state and Nigeria at large.
The communities have resorted to prayers to seek God’s intervention, even as they call on the Federal and Zamfara State governments, to demonstrate enough political will to tackle the menace.
Ibrahim Magaji, who is one of the farmers in the Dansadau Emirate, said the spate of killings, abduction and cattle rustling has increased in the troubled area.
He appealed to the authorities to assist in addressing the insecurity so that peace and stability can return.
The Farmers want the Federal and Zamfara State Governments to take proactive steps, to enable residents go about their lawful businesses.
Editor : Ena Agbanoma
