Armed bandit groups operating across parts of Kano and Katsina states have reportedly established a parallel system of control within major forest reserves, imposing illegal levies on farmers and dictating activities in the affected areas.
The development was disclosed by Bakatsine, a conflict and crisis journalist who tracks insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West, citing findings from investigative platform MA’ASUMAH. According to the report released on Friday, the armed groups have effectively taken over Falgore Forest in Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State and Rugu Forest in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The report revealed that the bandits now demand up to N50,000 per acre from sugarcane farmers before allowing them to harvest their crops. In addition, the groups are said to be collecting illegal farm taxes while issuing threats to enforce compliance.
Farmers who fail or refuse to pay the levies reportedly face severe consequences, including intimidation, destruction of their farmlands and crops, and the risk of violent attacks. As a result, many affected farmers have allegedly abandoned their fields to avoid harm.
Bakatsine noted that the affected forests lie within the Kano–Katsina food-producing belt, a critical agricultural zone in the region. While sugarcane growers are said to be the primary targets of the illegal taxation, maize farmers have also been impacted by the activities of the armed groups.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official reaction from state or federal government authorities regarding the allegations.
I have been reporting on latest news from Nigeria for almost 10 years now. I report on every possible news area I come across, but always ensure my reports are compiled with dignity and fact to uphold my personal values and duty as a journalist
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