The affected communities, Garin Lamido and Yan Shuni in Bakori Local Government Area, are said to be facing renewed tension following the latest demand.
Residents of two communities in Katsina State have been thrown into panic after bandits reportedly imposed a ₦10 million levy on each settlement, despite ongoing peace arrangements in the area.
The affected communities, Garin Lamido and Yan Shuni in Bakori Local Government Area, are said to be facing renewed tension following the latest demand.
The development was linked to armed men allegedly loyal to a notorious bandit leader, Isiya Kwashen Garwa.
A security analyst and conflict journalist, Bakastine, disclosed the incident in a post on his X handle, expressing concern over the fragile security situation in rural parts of the North-West.
According to local sources, the new demand has escalated fear among residents, with several families reportedly fleeing their homes over fears of possible attacks.
The levy comes amid previously brokered peace agreements involving community leaders, local authorities, and representatives of armed groups operating in the area.
However, residents have expressed frustration over repeated violations of these agreements, questioning the effectiveness of the peace deals.
Sources also said the continued presence of armed groups has sustained fear among farmers who depend on access to their farmlands for survival.
The report noted that the imposition of levies by bandits has become a recurring pattern in parts of the North-West, where communities are often forced to pay to avoid attacks.
Security observers have warned that continued compliance with such demands could embolden criminal groups and expand their influence across rural settlements.
Bakastine also questioned the effectiveness of existing security measures, calling for stronger enforcement strategies to better protect vulnerable communities.
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