"Bandits Establish Parallel Government in Kano and Katsina Forests, Charging Farmers N50,000 Fee"

Table of Contents

• Parallel Governance by Armed Bandits
• Demands from Sugarcane Growers
• Control of Key Forest Reserves
• Intimidation Tactics Against Farmers
• Impact on Agriculture
• Lack of Official Response

Armed bandits operating in parts of Kano and Katsina States have reportedly established a parallel governance system within critical forest reserves in the region.

They are demanding as much as N50,000 per acre from sugarcane farmers prior to harvest.

Bakatsine, a journalist focused on conflict and crisis reporting in Nigeria’s northwest, revealed this information, referencing an investigative outlet called MA’ASUMAH.

Reports from Friday indicate that these armed groups have seized control of Falgore Forest in the Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State and Rugu Forest in the Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The armed bandits are now collecting illegal agricultural taxes and issuing threats to farmers who do not comply.

The report highlighted that farmers who refuse to pay the imposed fees face intimidation, destruction of their crops, and the threat of violent attacks, which has compelled many to completely abandon their farmlands.

Bakatsine noted that these forests are situated at the core of the Kano–Katsina food belt.

Sugarcane farmers are reported to be the primary targets, although maize production has also been adversely affected.

As of the time of this report, there had been no official response from any government authorities.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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