Armed men have reportedly imposed a levy of N172.7 million on 25 communities in the Tsafe west region of Zamfara state. These armed individuals are said to be led by Danisuhu, a well-known bandit leader.
Zagazola Makama, a publication focused on counterinsurgency efforts in the Lake Chad area, claims that the levies were coupled with requests for in-kind donations, such as bags of soybeans, and threats of violence against those who do not comply.
According to the report, these demands have compelled hundreds of residents to flee their homes and sources of income.
Makama noted that the specific villages targeted and their corresponding levies include Gijinzama (N8.5 million), Dakolo (N5 million + 20 bags of soybeans), Gunja (N7 million), Kauyen Kane (N5 million), Kurar Mota (N6 million), Sabon Garin Bakin Gulbi (N2.5 million), Kibari (N3 million), Karda (N5 million), Daga Ciki (N3 million), Biya (N5 million), Barebari (N6 million), Kauyen Magaji (N7 million), Kwaren Maisaje (N10 million), Magazawa (N10 million), Maciya (N5 million), and Unguwar Danhalima (N5 million).
Additional villages include Unguwar Rogo (N5 million), Katanga (N5 million), Magazu (N5 million), Sungawa (N15 million), Rakyabu (N15 million), Yalwa (N2.7 million), Tsageru (N5 million), Gidan Anne (N7 million), and Kunchin Kalgo (N20 million).
“Numerous residents in these communities have reportedly left their homes, farmland, and livelihoods due to fear of violent retaliation for not fulfilling the demands,” the report states.
The failure to meet these levies often leads to violent assaults by the bandits, forcing residents to escape, sources say.
The report further indicated that residents are requesting an increase in security personnel and permanent posts in Tsafe West, as well as emergency aid for those who have been displaced.
