Armed criminal groups have established a parallel system of governance in parts of Northern Nigeria, imposing illegal farming taxes on communities in Kano and Katsina states. Reports indicate that these bandits are demanding as much as N50,000 per acre from sugarcane growers before they can harvest their crops.
Forest Strongholds and Extortion Tactics
The bandits have reportedly entrenched themselves in two key forest reserves: the Rugu Forest in Faskari Local Council of Katsina State and the Falgore Forest in Doguwa council area of Kano State. From these hideouts, they enforce their illegal levies and issue violent threats against farmers who refuse to comply.
Farmers face severe consequences for non-payment, including:
- Intimidation and threats of violence.
- Destruction of their crops before harvest.
- Forced abandonment of their farmlands due to fear.
While sugarcane farmers are the primary targets, the report confirms that maize production in the area is also significantly affected by this criminal activity.
Threat to Nigeria's Food Belt
Activist Bakatsine, using the X handle @DanKatsina50, highlighted that these forests are strategically located within the Kano–Katsina food belt. This corridor is a major supplier of sugarcane and maize to large markets, including the prominent Dawanau Market in Kano.
Experts are now warning that the continued disruption of farming activities by these armed groups could have dire national consequences. The situation poses a serious risk of triggering food shortages and sharp price increases across Northern Nigeria and beyond.
Security Presence Fails to Deter Criminals
Despite the visible presence of military and police checkpoints along the Falgore Road, the armed groups are operating with alarming audacity. The report claims their activities are ongoing within five kilometres of these official security positions.
Local residents and farming communities describe a scenario of gradual takeover. The armed actors are not just collecting taxes; they are enforcing rules and exerting control over daily economic activities, seemingly without any significant resistance.
Government Response and Justification for Releases
As of press time on 12 January 2026, the affected state governments and security agencies had not issued an official response to these specific allegations of farm taxation.
In a related development, the Katsina State government has defended its decision to release 70 persons suspected of banditry-related activities. The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu'azu, explained the move during a live programme.
Dr. Mu'azu stated that the release was part of a peace deal between repentant bandits and communities affected by insecurity. He claimed this deal, involving at least 15 council areas, had already led to the release of about 1,000 persons by the repentant bandits.
