In a shocking development in Zamfara State, gunmen have reportedly imposed a staggering levy of N172.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication specializing in the Lake Chad region, the armed group, allegedly led by notorious bandit leader Danisuhu, has also insisted on receiving bags of soybeans as part of the levy.

Villages and Levies: A Breakdown

The imposed levies vary by village, with some of the highest demands including:

• Kunchin Kalgo: N20 million
• Sungawa and Rakyabu: N15 million each
• Gijinzama: N8.5 million
• Dakolo: N5 million and 20 bags of soybeans
• Gunja: N7 million

Threats of Violence for Non-Compliance

“These levies come with threats of brutal attacks for those who fail to comply,” the report revealed. Many villagers, unable to meet these demands, have fled, leaving behind their farmlands and livelihoods.

A local source described the dire situation, saying, “The inability to pay often results in violent attacks by the bandits, forcing residents to flee for safety.”

Security Gaps in Rural Tsafe West

While security measures have improved in Tsafe town and along the Funtua-Tsafe axis, the rural villages of Tsafe West remain vulnerable to banditry. Residents are now pleading for urgent government intervention to restore peace and safety in the region.

This disturbing situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by communities in Zamfara State. As the affected villages struggle to cope, it is imperative for authorities to take swift action to prevent further suffering.