By Erewunmi Peace

Residents of several farming communities in Kano and Katsina States have raised alarm over the activities of armed bandits who have reportedly imposed a ₦50,000 levy on farmers before they are allowed to cultivate or harvest their crops.

According to reports, the bandits operate mainly in areas close to forest zones linking both states, including parts of Falgore Forest in Kano and Rugu Forest in Katsina, where they are said to exercise control over surrounding rural settlements.

Affected farmers disclosed that the armed groups demand the payment as a form of “farming tax,” threatening violence, crop destruction, or abduction against those who fail to comply.

In some communities, the levy is reportedly charged per farm or per acre, worsening the financial burden on already struggling farmers.

Local sources said the development has forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands for fear of attacks, raising concerns over food security and livelihoods in the affected areas. Some farmers described the situation as a form of illegal taxation imposed by criminal groups acting with impunity.

Security experts note that the practice of bandits collecting levies from farmers has been reported in parts of north-west Nigeria in recent years, often in areas where security presence is weak and access to forests allows armed groups to operate freely.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no detailed official statement from security agencies or state governments addressing the specific allegations.

Residents are calling on authorities to intensify security operations to protect farming communities and prevent further disruption of agricultural activities.