Villages in the Tsafe West area of Zamfara State have been asked to pay a levy of up to ₦172.7 million by gunmen reportedly led by notorious bandit leader Danisuhu.
The illegal levy also includes demands for in-kind contributions such as bags of soybeans and threats of violence against non-compliant residents.
Consequently, hundreds of villagers have abandoned their homes, farmlands, and livelihoods in fear of brutal attacks.
The report stated that the targeted villages and their respective 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).
Additionally, Unguwar Rogo received N5 million, Katanga received N5 million, and Magazu also received N5 million.
Furthermore, Sungawa received N15 million, Rakyabu received N15 million, and Yalwa received N2.7 million.
In addition, Tsageru received N5 million, Gidan Anne received N7 million, and Kunchin Kalgo received N20 million.
The report quoted a local source describing the situation as dire:
“The inability to pay these levies often results in brutal attacks by the bandits, leaving the residents with no option but to flee.”
The fear of violent reprisals has emptied many villages, forcing residents to seek safety elsewhere.
Recent security improvements have occurred in Tsafe town and along the Funtua-Tsafe axis.
However, rural areas like Tsafe West remain neglected.
In June 2024, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal criticized the state judiciary for granting bail to arrested bandit leaders.
He expressed strong concern about the release of suspects detained with weapons, emphasizing the need for greater accountability.
Lawal stated that influential individuals in Abuja ordered the release of the suspected bandit leaders during the process.
They maintained communication with these leaders to ensure the release went smoothly and effectively.