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Bandits Demand ₦20 Million From Zamfara Farmers to Access Their Farmland
GUSAU, Nigeria — Farmers in Shanawa, Jangeru, and Galadi communities of Shinkafi Local Government Area, Zamfara State, say they are living in fear after armed bandits allegedly demanded ₦20 million from them before they can enter their farmlands this harvest season.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Residents told reporters that the demand came after weeks of threats and attacks that forced many farmers to abandon their crops. The communities said the bandits warned that anyone who attempts to harvest without paying the money would be attacked.
According to one farmer, who gave his name as Musa, the gunmen sent the message through local mediators.
“They told us that unless we pay ₦20 million, no one should go to the farms,” Musa said. “We have already lost so much this year because of insecurity. Now, they want to take away the little we have left.”
The affected villages, located near the Shinkafi-Moriki axis, have been targets of repeated bandit attacks in recent years. Many residents have either relocated or reduced farming activities due to fear of being kidnapped.
Local leaders said the situation threatens food security in the area, as thousands of hectares of crops are now at risk of being wasted.
A community elder, Malam Usman, said the farmers have been appealing to security agencies and the Zamfara State Government for help.
“We are calling on the government to come to our aid,” he said. “The bandits are still in the forests, and they control the farmlands. Without help, we cannot harvest anything this year.”
Zamfara State, one of Nigeria’s major farming regions, has faced severe insecurity caused by armed groups who attack villages, kidnap residents, and demand ransom. Many of these groups operate from forest areas across the state, making farming increasingly dangerous.
Security sources confirmed that the military and police have recently increased patrols in the region, but farmers say the presence has not stopped the threats.
A senior security officer in Shinkafi, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to speak, said efforts are ongoing to protect rural communities.
“We are aware of the threats, and security forces are working to ensure people can safely return to their farms,” the officer said. “Operations are being carried out in the surrounding forests.”
The Zamfara State Government has not issued an official statement on the alleged ₦20 million demand. However, government officials have repeatedly called on residents to report extortion and security threats to local authorities.
Experts warn that continued attacks on farmers could worsen food shortages and drive up prices across the country.
An agricultural economist, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, said insecurity in farming areas is one of the biggest challenges facing Nigeria’s food production.
“When farmers cannot access their land, it affects national output,” Bello said. “This is why government intervention is crucial to protect rural communities.”
Farmers in the affected communities said they are now waiting for help before returning to the fields. Many have already started moving their families to nearby towns for safety.
“We are afraid to go back,” said Musa. “If the government doesn’t help, we may lose everything this season.”
The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has disclosed that the party is experiencing a significant rise in new member registrations following recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, April 20, 2026, Abdullahi attributed the growing interest to developments involving prominent political figures such as David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, which he said have drawn increased public attention to the political landscape.
He explained that many Nigerians are becoming more engaged in political activities as they closely observe unfolding events and seek to participate more actively in the democratic process.
According to him, the situation has heightened awareness among citizens, leading to increased political participation and a steady influx of new members into the party.
Abdullahi stated that the surge in registrations became noticeable after INEC’s decision affecting David Mark, noting that many Nigerians now have a clearer understanding of ongoing political developments.
The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, with factions led by Nafiu Bala and David Mark both laying claim to the party’s structure.
The dispute, which dates back to July 2025 following the emergence of an opposition coalition, has resulted in prolonged legal battles.
Citing a March 12 judgment of the Court of Appeal, INEC announced that it would not recognise either faction, a position conveyed in a statement by its National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Mohammed Haruna.
The electoral body added that it would refrain from engaging with both groups, including participation in their meetings, congresses, or conventions, pending the outcome of a case before a Federal High Court.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
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