In Zamfara State, Nigeria, a severe crisis has unfolded as bandits have taken control of 102 communities, causing massive disruptions to farming activities. Zamfara, renowned for its agricultural prowess and often referred to as the food basket of the nation, has seen its farming operations come to a near halt due to escalating banditry.
Farming has long been the backbone of Zamfara’s economy, with over 90% of the population relying on agriculture for their livelihoods. The state has historically produced significant quantities of both cash and food crops. However, since banditry emerged in 2009 and intensified around 2012, these farming activities have been gravely affected.
Currently, more than 200 villages across the state are deserted. The widespread banditry has forced a large portion of the rural population to flee to urban areas for safety. Those who have remained face daunting challenges. They are often subjected to extortion by bandits, who impose taxes or levies, and many farmlands have been appropriated for grazing the bandits’ livestock.
The situation has become increasingly dire. In Zurmi Local Government Area alone, villages such as Gidan Labbo, Tsakauna, and Dogon-hako have been overtaken by bandits. Similarly, in Dadan Tsafe, Maru, Anka, Maradun, Talata-Mafara, and Gusau Local Government Areas, numerous villages are under bandit control or have been abandoned. These areas have witnessed a significant disruption in farming activities, with many farmlands now lying fallow or being used for unintended purposes.
In response to this alarming situation, the Zamfara State Government has vowed to take decisive action. Alhaji Abubakar Nakwada, the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government, has emphasized that Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration is fully committed to restoring security and enabling farmers to return to their lands. He assured that the government is making substantial efforts to collaborate with security agencies to address the bandit menace.
Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration has made it clear that it will not engage in negotiations with the bandits, regardless of their demands. Instead, the focus will be on confronting the bandits directly to restore peace and security across the state. The administration’s stance is that resolving this issue is critical for the survival of Zamfara’s agricultural sector and the well-being of its people.
The situation in Zamfara highlights the urgent need for effective security measures and support for affected communities. As the government works towards these goals, the hope is to see a return to stability and a revival of the agricultural activities that are vital to the state’s economy and food security.
