Residents of at least 26 communities in Sabon-Birni local government area of Sokoto State have begun raising funds to pay fresh levies imposed by bandits, who have also suspended farming activities ahead of the rainy season.
Sources said the armed groups issued a 3-day ultimatum, warning farmers to stay away from their farmlands until the demanded payments were made. The affected communities include Zululu, Gardi, Katsira, Garin Idi, Kafchi, RambaÉ—awa, Nasarawa and several others.
A resident disclosed that the bandits threatened to kill or abduct anyone found farming during the period, with abducted victims expected to pay a ransom of ₦500,000 for release. Villagers said they had already started contributing money while traditional rulers and clerics were expected to engage the bandits on the amount each community would pay.
According to residents, such levies have become a recurring burden, with communities often forced to pay between ₦4 million and ₦6 million before farming or harvesting can proceed. Sources further alleged that about 20 people were recently abducted in Garin Idi after delays in payment, though they were later released after ₦600,000 was reportedly paid. Five others were said to remain in captivity.
The Sokoto State Police Command said it was unaware of the development, while efforts to obtain the state government’s reaction were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
