Bandit attacks have inflicted heavy tolls on farming communities nationwide, leading to a grim reality of loss and fear. In Benue State, a staggering 130 farmers fell victim to bandit violence across four local government areas just in March. The Association of Nigerian Farmers in Benue reported over N1.1 billion in losses due to attacks and kidnappings, highlighting the dire consequences faced by agricultural communities. Meanwhile, Sokoto State witnessed 28 farmer fatalities, accompanied by ransom payments totaling N3 billion to bandits, underscoring the widespread impact of insecurity on farmers' lives and livelihoods. Plateau State farmers, too, endure constant threats from bandits, while Borno State grapples with a drastic 90% decline in sorghum production due to ongoing instability. In Delta State, the harrowing tale continues with eight farmers kidnapped and forced to pay hefty ransoms ranging from N1 million to N5 million each. Similar stories emerge from Niger State, where farmers are forced to abandon farms in areas plagued by banditry, fearing abduction and crop destruction. The plight extends to Kaduna State, where farmers are immobilized by insecurity, unable to tend to their fields. Across the nation, farmers implore urgent government intervention to quell the escalating crisis, preserve lives, and safeguard food production.
