Inside The Illegal Taxes Bandits Charge Northern Farmers
By MAHMOOD MALIK MUSA (M. M. M.) IBRAHIM
Bandits Establish Parallel Tax Regime in Food-Producing Belt
ARMED groups operating across parts of Kano and Katsina states have allegedly imposed an illegal “farming tax” on rural communities, demanding up to ₦50,000 per acre from sugarcane farmers before they are allowed to harvest their crops.
The levies are reportedly being enforced within the Rugu Forest in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State and the Falgore Forest in Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State—two vast forest reserves that have long been linked to bandit activity.
Farmers say the payments are non-negotiable. Those who refuse face threats, destruction of farmland, and the risk of violent attacks, forcing many to abandon their fields altogether.
Targeting Sugarcane and Maize Production
Sugarcane growers appear to be the primary targets, though maize farmers are also affected. The forests sit within the Kano–Katsina agricultural corridor, a critical food-producing zone that supplies staples to major markets, including Dawanau Market in Kano—one of West Africa’s largest food commodity hubs.
According to activist Bakatsine (@DanKatsina50 on X), the bandits’ control of these forest routes allows them to regulate who farms, who harvests, and who trades in surrounding communities.
Agricultural experts warn that the disruption could reduce output, drive up food prices, and worsen food insecurity across Northern Nigeria.
Security Presence, Limited Control
Despite the presence of military and police checkpoints along Falgore Road, reports indicate that armed groups are operating within a five-kilometre radius of these security positions.
Residents describe the situation as a slow but steady takeover. Armed men reportedly enforce rules, collect levies, and exercise authority over economic activities with little resistance.
As of press time, neither Kano nor Katsina state governments, nor security agencies, had issued official responses to the allegations.
Controversy Over Release of Suspected Bandits
The situation has drawn further attention following the Katsina State government’s confirmation that 70 individuals suspected of banditry-related offences were recently released from detention.
Speaking on a live programme, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, said the release was part of a peace agreement between repentant bandits and affected communities.
According to Muazu, the deal—covering at least 15 local government areas—has led to the release of about 1,000 abducted persons, which the government considers a tangible gain of the dialogue process.
However, critics argue that the continued extortion of farmers raises questions about the effectiveness and credibility of such peace arrangements.
