Armed groups reportedly operating in parts of Kebbi State have demanded a total of N40 million from farmers across several communities in Bena, located in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, before allowing them access to their farmlands for the new farming season.
The development was made public on Saturday by security analyst and crisis journalist Bakastine, who shared the information on his X handle, raising concerns about worsening insecurity in rural areas of the state.
According to reports from affected communities, the demand has triggered panic among residents, with some families fleeing their homes while others remain uncertain about returning to their farms due to fear of possible attacks.
Local sources say the situation has further heightened tension in an area already grappling with repeated security challenges and limited protection for farming communities.
Observers note that similar practices have emerged in parts of Nigeria’s North-West, where armed groups allegedly impose informal levies on rural populations before farming activities commence. These arrangements are often locally referred to as “taxation” or negotiated “peace settlements.”
However, analysts argue that such practices have not delivered lasting stability, instead deepening fear, displacement, and disruption of agricultural livelihoods.
Security experts warn that continued payment of such levies could strengthen the influence of armed groups over rural communities while further threatening food production and rural development.
Bakastine also questioned the effectiveness of current security responses, writing: “If farmers must pay bandits before cultivating their land, who truly controls these communities?”
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the situation, leaving residents uncertain about what the coming farming season will hold.
