“Use Cattle or Die” – Terrorists Warn Kebbi Farmers Against Using Modern Farming Equipment

Farmers in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State are living in fear following threats from suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group, who have reportedly warned them to abandon mechanised farming or face execution.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the group issued a stern warning to local communities, declaring that only traditional, cattle-driven farming methods are acceptable. The terrorists reportedly vowed to kill anyone caught using tractors or other modern tools in place of cattle. This development has heightened panic across the area, especially as many farmers had begun transitioning to mechanised techniques due to rampant cattle rustling.

“Now, the terrorists are dictating how we should farm,” a local resident said. “They forbid us from using machines. When we use cattle, they seize them. We’re farming both for sustenance and commercial purposes.”

Sources within the local intelligence community confirmed that the threats have been widely circulated among villages in Augie. Residents are now pleading for swift intervention from the Nigerian military and government to prevent further attacks and ensure their safety.

The State has faced ongoing violence linked to the same group. In April, 13 vigilantes were killed in Morai village, also in Augie LGA, during a botched effort to retrieve stolen livestock from suspected Lakurawa gunmen.

When contacted, Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, said he was aware of the situation and would investigate further.