Terrorists, Bandits Have Enslaved Us, Forcing Us to Work on Their Farms – Niger Residents Lament

Residents of Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State are raising the alarm over a growing crisis, claiming that terrorists and bandits have enslaved them, forcing locals to work on their farms. The distressing reports come from communities severely impacted by insecurity following the withdrawal of military forces from the area three months ago.

At a press conference in Minna, the Niger State capital, Saidu Salihu, Secretary of the Coalition of Shiroro Associations, spoke out about the dire conditions in Allawa and surrounding communities. He revealed that armed groups have taken control of farmlands, coercing residents into farming for them. In one case, a notorious terrorist leader reportedly seized over 20 bags of soybeans from local farms this year alone.

Salihu called for the urgent return of military forces to the region to allow displaced residents to safely resume their agricultural activities. He emphasized the need for the Niger State government to work closely with security agencies and to arm local vigilante groups to protect the vulnerable population.

Despite attempts by bandits to engage in dialogue with affected communities, both state and federal governments have reportedly remained unresponsive. Salihu also urged authorities to provide compensation to those who have lost their homes, properties, and livelihoods due to the escalating violence.

Adding to the concerns, Abdullah Suleiman Erena, another local leader, warned of a worsening security situation in the Lakpma axis. He noted the presence of not only bandits but also terrorist factions, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Ansaru. According to Erena, these groups are forming a stronghold in the area, turning the region into what he described as a “terrorist ecosystem,” far more complex and dangerous than typical banditry.

He expressed frustration at the government’s failure to fully grasp the gravity of the situation, warning that the crisis could soon spill over into the Federal Capital Territory due to its proximity to Shiroro LGA.

Meanwhile, Sani Abubakar Yusuf Kokki, another community representative, criticized the state government for not exerting enough pressure on the federal government to address the worsening security crisis. Kokki said, “While we acknowledge the issue of informants working with terrorists, that should not justify abandoning the larger population.”

The president of the Lakpma Youth Forum, Babangida Kudodo, echoed these concerns, revealing that despite numerous reports and pleas to government officials, little has been done to alleviate the situation. He further alleged that some individuals arrested for collaborating with terrorists were later released, posing continued threats to the community.

The residents of Shiroro LGA are now urging authorities to take immediate and decisive action before the situation spirals even further out of control.