Zamfara, Nigeria – Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly issued fresh threats to local farmers in Zamfara State, demanding a so-called ₦50 million “peace tax” before they can safely access their farmlands this rainy season.
Security expert Bakatsine revealed the development on Monday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, warning that the demand specifically targets residents of Tsalaken Gulbi from Fakai village in Shinkafi Local Government Area. The affected zone reportedly extends towards Qaya, a border community near the Niger Republic.
According to Bakatsine, Turji’s gang has warned that only after the full ₦50 million ransom is paid will farmers be allowed to work their lands “peacefully.”
The imposition of such payments has become disturbingly routine in some parts of Northern Nigeria, where farmers are forced to pay what is effectively a protection fee during planting and harvesting seasons.
Despite compliance with these demands, many farmers still face deadly attacks. In numerous instances, armed groups have murdered villagers even after payments were made, or have looted harvested crops, leaving victims devastated both economically and emotionally.
The situation underscores the worsening insecurity in rural communities, where government presence is minimal and civilians are left at the mercy of heavily armed gangs.
Efforts by the military and other security forces have so far yielded limited results in fully reclaiming these troubled areas.
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By Amanabo Ocholi
The Bureau Newspaper
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