Residents of at least 26 communities in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State have reportedly begun contributing money to pay fresh levies allegedly imposed by bandits before they will be allowed to access their farms.
The armed groups were said to have given the affected communities a three-day ultimatum, warning farmers not to go to their farmlands until the money demanded from them was paid.
The development comes ahead of the wet season farming period, raising concerns over food production and the safety of rural farmers in the area.
Residents said the bandits threatened to kill or abduct anyone found farming while the ultimatum was still in force.
According to Daily Trust, sources said the affected communities include Garin Faji, Cina Barka, Zululu, Dan Gari, Garin Maigayya, Gardi, Katsira, Garin Baushe, Sulmawa, Zakin Ganga, Dan Kware, Garje, Dogon Faru, Son Allah, Garin Galadima, Kafchi, Matabaya, Garin Labo, Zango, Kaifin Aska, Tsauna Dogo, Tudun Wada, Rambadawa, Ga Itace, Nasarawa and Garin Idi.
No reactions yet from either the Sokoto State government or Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
