Bandits Run Parallel Government, Tax Farmers ₦50,000 Each

Kano and Katsina States, Nigeria — Tuesday, January 8, 2026, 7:00 AM

Several farming communities across Kano and Katsina States are facing renewed tension after armed bandit groups reportedly imposed a compulsory levy of ₦50,000 on each farmer. Residents say the groups now operate as a parallel authority, issuing directives, enforcing rules, and controlling daily activities in remote villages.

The development, which unfolded between Friday, January 9, and Saturday, January 10, 2026, has disrupted agricultural plans and raised serious concerns about food security, local governance, and rural safety. Community members describe the situation as coercive, even though the armed groups claim they provide protection.

Farmers in affected areas say the levy applies to every household engaged in farming, regardless of farm size or crop type. Many fear retaliation if they fail to comply, as previous warnings allegedly included threats of violence and property destruction.

How Bandits Run Parallel Government Structures in Kano Villages

In parts of Rogo and Shanono local government areas of Kano State, residents described a gradual erosion of state authority. Over several months, armed groups allegedly restricted movement along farm routes, dictated market schedules, and intervened in local disputes.

On Saturday, January 10, 2026, at about 6:30 PM, villagers gathered at an open field after receiving messages that attendance was mandatory. Witnesses said armed men arrived on motorcycles and addressed the crowd without resistance.

The spokesperson reportedly announced the levy, explaining that each farmer must pay ₦50,000 before the next planting season. According to residents, the group claimed the money would fund security operations and logistics.

Although the explanation sounded organized, farmers described the demand as overwhelming. Many rely on subsistence farming and have not yet recovered from previous extortion payments.

A middle-aged maize farmer said he sold goats earlier in the year to meet similar demands. He explained that raising another ₦50,000 within weeks would affect his family’s food supply.

Parallel Government Expands Across Katsina Farming Communities

Across Katsina State, similar reports emerged from Jibia and Batsari local government areas. Residents said armed groups followed the same approach, holding nighttime meetings and announcing the levy as compulsory.

According to local sources, meetings took place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Villagers said refusal was not presented as an option.

In Batsari, farmers reported that coordinators were appointed to record names and farmland details. The levy reportedly applies equally, without exemptions.

Some residents said the armed groups warned against contacting security agencies, claiming such actions would attract punishment. As a result, many villagers remain silent out of fear.

Economic Pressure on Farmers and Local Markets

The levy has increased financial pressure on farmers in both states. Agricultural experts warn that repeated extortion could reduce cultivated land and discourage planting during the upcoming season.

Traders in weekly markets reported early supply shortages. Grain prices have shown slight increases, while transportation costs rose after certain routes became unsafe.

Analysts explained that higher production costs often transfer to consumers, affecting food prices in urban centers.

For more background, read our related report on how insecurity affects farmers in North-West Nigeria.

Community Leaders Speak Under Strain

Traditional rulers in affected areas said their authority has weakened due to persistent threats. Several village heads confirmed they attended meetings under pressure.

One district head explained that attempts to resist or alert authorities in the past resulted in intimidation. As a result, many leaders now prioritize community safety over confrontation.

Religious leaders also raised concerns. During Friday sermons on January 9, 2026, clerics urged calm while calling on government authorities to restore order.

Government and Security Response

As of Tuesday morning, officials in Kano and Katsina States had not released detailed statements regarding the reported levy. Security sources, however, confirmed ongoing operations in forested areas linked to armed groups.

Residents said visible patrols remain rare in remote villages. Many rely on informal warning networks to detect approaching threats.

Official security updates are available on the Federal Ministry of Defence website.

Humanitarian Risks and Possible Displacement

Humanitarian workers warned that sustained extortion could force families to abandon their homes. Displacement would increase pressure on urban areas already facing limited resources.

Women and children often bear the greatest burden when household income declines. Aid groups stressed the need for early intervention.

Health experts also cautioned that prolonged stress contributes to illness and reduced productivity.

Legal and Governance Implications

Legal analysts described the situation as a direct challenge to constitutional authority. They explained that collecting levies and enforcing rules without lawful mandate remains a serious criminal offense.

Experts warned that allowing such practices to continue could weaken public trust in governance structures.

Farmers Share Personal Experiences

Several farmers described difficult choices. A rice farmer in Katsina said he planned to borrow money at high interest to meet the demand.

Another farmer in Kano said he considered skipping the next planting season, fearing further losses.

Experts warned that reduced farming activity could affect long-term food availability.

Background on Banditry in the North-West

Banditry in North-West Nigeria has evolved over the past decade. What began as sporadic attacks has transformed into organized territorial control.

Analysts linked the trend to weak rural policing, unemployment, and arms proliferation.

Past interventions included military operations and dialogue efforts, with mixed outcomes.

Possible Paths to Stability

Security experts emphasized sustained patrols, intelligence-led operations, and community engagement as critical steps.

They also recommended economic support programs to help farmers recover losses.

Without decisive action, residents fear illegal taxation could become normalized.

As the farming season approaches, communities continue to hope for the restoration of lawful authority and lasting peace.

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