Farmers across several states in Nigeria, including Benue, Sokoto, Niger, and Plateau, are facing severe challenges due to attacks by bandits. According to reports, over 165 farmers have lost their lives in these attacks, with Benue State recording the highest number of fatalities at 130. In Sokoto State, 28 farmers have been killed since the beginning of the year, while six farmers lost their lives in Niger State, and one farmer was murdered in Plateau State.
The upsurge in banditry has also led to over 295 individuals being held hostage by kidnappers in Sokoto, Kaduna, and Borno states. Farmers are not only losing their lives but also facing financial burdens, with some forced to pay hefty ransoms to secure their release from bandits. This has had a significant impact on farming activities, as farmers are now unable to access their farms due to security concerns.
In states like Delta, farmers have been kidnapped, with some paying ransoms of between N1 million and N5 million each. The situation is similar in Nasarawa State, where farmers are also facing challenges accessing their farms due to insecurity, leading to a decline in farming activities.
The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has called on the government to urgently address the security challenges facing farmers. They have also appealed for assistance to mitigate the impact of these attacks on their livelihoods. The situation calls for immediate action to ensure the safety and security of farmers across the country.
