Bandits have imposed a staggering levy of N172.7 million on 25 communities in the Tsafe West area of Zamfara state, prompting hundreds of residents to abandon their homes out of fear of violent reprisals.
According to reports by Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication focusing on the Lake Chad region, the gunmen are led by a notorious bandit leader, Danisuhu.
In addition to cash payments, the assailants have demanded in-kind contributions such as bags of soybeans from the affected communities.
The villages targeted and their respective levies include:
- Gijinzama: N8.5 million
- Dakolo: N5 million and 20 bags of soybeans
- Gunja: N7 million
- Kauyen Kane: N5 million
- Kurar Mota: N6 million
Among the hardest-hit villages are Kunchin Kalgo, which faces the highest levy of N20 million, and Sungawa and Rakyabu, each saddled with demands of N15 million.
“These levies are accompanied by threats of violence against those who fail to comply,” the report stated.
The imposition of these levies has compounded the hardships faced by residents in the region, who already grapple with the devastating effects of persistent banditry, insecurity, and displacement.
Many have fled their villages to seek refuge in neighbouring areas, leaving behind their homes, farms, and livelihoods.
Local authorities have yet to issue a response to the latest demands by the gunmen.