Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Residents of several farming communities in Bena District of Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State have reportedly been asked by armed bandits to pay a total of ₦40 million before they can gain access to their farmlands for the 2026 farming season.
According to reports from affected communities, the demand was allegedly communicated to farmers ahead of the commencement of large-scale cultivation activities. The development has generated anxiety among residents, many of whom depend entirely on farming for their livelihoods and household income.
Community sources said the demand affects multiple villages within the Bena axis, an area that has experienced recurring security challenges linked to armed banditry in recent years. Residents fear that failure to comply with the demand could expose farmers to attacks, abductions, or restrictions from accessing their agricultural lands.
The reported ultimatum comes at a critical period when farmers across northern Nigeria are preparing their fields for planting following the onset of seasonal rains. Agricultural activities in many parts of the region have previously been disrupted by insecurity, resulting in reduced cultivation, displacement of farming populations, and concerns over food production.
Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area has been among locations affected by armed attacks and rural insecurity. Security agencies have conducted several operations in the area over the years in an effort to curb the activities of criminal groups operating within forested and remote communities.
Residents say the latest development has heightened concerns about the ability of local farmers to cultivate crops during the current season. Many households depend on annual harvests for food supply and economic survival, making access to farmland essential for community welfare.
Agriculture remains one of the primary economic activities in Kebbi State, with thousands of residents engaged in the cultivation of rice, maize, millet, sorghum, and other staple crops. Any disruption to farming activities during the planting season could have implications for local agricultural output and rural livelihoods.
At the time of reporting, security authorities had not issued an official statement confirming the alleged ₦40 million demand. Likewise, no formal announcement had been made by the Kebbi State Government regarding the specific claims from the affected communities.
The reported incident adds to broader concerns about the impact of insecurity on agricultural production across parts of northern Nigeria, where attacks on rural communities have in some cases limited access to farms, markets, and transportation routes.
Community leaders and residents have continued to call for increased security presence and protection for farming settlements, arguing that safe access to agricultural land is essential for economic stability and food production.
As the farming season progresses, attention is expected to focus on measures being taken by security agencies and government authorities to safeguard farmers and ensure that agricultural activities can proceed without intimidation or unlawful interference.
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