Farmers in Shanawa, Jangeru, and Galadi communities of Shinkafi Local Government Area, Zamfara State, are in distress following a demand by bandits who allegedly ordered them to pay ₦20 million before they could enter their farms for the harvest season.

Residents said the situation has caused growing frustration across farming settlements, accusing the gunmen of turning agricultural activities into a “ransom trade.”

A local farmer, who pleaded anonymity, said the extortion has become a recurring ordeal every farming season.

“They demand money before we can plant, and when harvest time comes, they ask for another payment,” the farmer said. “We no longer have peace on our own land. We must pay before we can even touch our crops.”

According to him, the latest threat from the armed group came with a stern warning: “Bring ₦20 million or forget your farms.”

Another resident revealed that farmers who attempt to sneak into their farms, especially at night, are often abducted or killed by the attackers.

Security analyst Bakastine disclosed that the affected areas have witnessed repeated assaults in recent months, as the bandits tighten their grip on farmlands.

“These attacks have become a form of economic warfare,” he explained. “The criminals are using fear and extortion to subdue rural communities.”

The farmers have now called on the Zamfara State Government and security agencies to take swift action, lamenting that attacks persist despite ongoing military operations in the region.

“We are tired of peace talks that lead nowhere,” another farmer said. “All we want is to farm and live in peace again.”