Kaduna Farmers Forced to Pay N100,000 by Bandits for Harvesting Crops
The farmers in Kaduna, a state in Nigeria, are facing a double threat from bandits and hunger. The bandits, who are armed criminals who attack and kidnap people in rural areas, are demanding ransom from the farmers before they can harvest their crops from their farms.
The farmers, who depend on their crops for their food and income, are left with no choice but to pay or risk losing their lives and livelihoods.
The banditry problem is affecting several villages in Kaduna, such as Kidandan, Galadima, Angular Fala’u, and Kerawa.
A source from Kidandan village told The PUNCH that the bandits, who are led by warlords named Buhari, Gana’i, and Kwalameri, are forcing the farmers to pay between N70,000 and N100,000 to access their farms. Those who refuse to pay are either kidnapped, killed, or have their crops seized by the bandits.
The source warned that the banditry situation could lead to a food crisis in the state, as many farmers have abandoned their farms due to fear and insecurity. The bandits have also disrupted the transportation and marketing of farm produce, making it difficult for the farmers to sell their crops and earn income.
The banditry problem is not only affecting the agriculture sector, but also other aspects of the economy and society in Kaduna. The bandits have attacked and closed down many schools and health facilities, depriving the people of education and health services . The bandits have also targeted industries and businesses, causing losses and unemployment.
The Nigerian government and security agencies have been trying to tackle the banditry problem and restore peace and stability in Kaduna and other states. The Nigerian Army, under Operation Safe Haven, has arrested 34 suspects and rescued some victims of kidnapping in Kaduna between 22 and 29 October 2023. The Kaduna State Government has also imposed a 24-hour curfew and banned the movement of motorcycles and tricycles in some areas to prevent the bandits from operating.
The people of Kaduna are hoping that the government and the security agencies will succeed in ending the banditry menace and protecting their lives and properties. The farmers are also hoping that they will be able to harvest their crops and feed their families without paying ransom to the bandits.
