Residents of several farming communities in Bena District of Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, Kebbi State, are reportedly living in fear after armed groups allegedly imposed a N40 million levy on farmers before they can access their farmlands for the 2026 cultivation season.
The development was disclosed on Saturday by security analyst and conflict reporter Bakastine in a post shared on his X account, raising concerns over the worsening security situation in the area.
According to reports from affected communities, the demand has triggered widespread anxiety among residents, with some families reportedly abandoning their homes over fears of possible attacks. Others remain uncertain about returning to their farms due to concerns about their safety.
Community sources said the latest threat has compounded existing security challenges in the district, which has experienced repeated attacks and continues to suffer from inadequate security presence.
Observers noted that the incident reflects a growing pattern across parts of Nigeria’s North-West, where armed groups allegedly extort farming communities through illegal levies before allowing cultivation activities to proceed. Residents often describe such arrangements as a form of “tax” or temporary peace deal.
However, findings suggest that these agreements rarely guarantee lasting security, as communities frequently continue to face intimidation, attacks, and renewed demands despite compliance.
Security experts have warned that the payment of levies to criminal groups could strengthen their operational capacity, expand their influence in rural areas, and pose further threats to food production and regional stability.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement on the matter, leaving residents uncertain about what actions may be taken to address the situation.
