In a devastating turn of events, bandits have set ablaze several hectares of farmland in Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, just 48 hours after a peace parley was held with the group.
The parley, aimed at negotiating peace, was led by prominent cleric Sheik Assadus Sunnah. Despite the dialogue, bandits launched attacks on farmland around Zako, near Kwaga village, along the Birnin-Gwari-Kaduna highway.
The arson attack began around 10:00 a.m., with several hectares of maize farms in Zako and Kwaga village engulfed in flames.
Eyewitnesses told PRNigeria that the destruction continued throughout the day, with the bandits moving from one farm to another, setting them ablaze. Local farmers and community members were left helpless, watching as the flames destroyed their livelihoods.
“We are helpless and totally confused about the situation,” said a farmer with approximately six hectares of maize in Kwaga. Tanko, like many other farmers in the region, relied on this harvest to sustain his family and community.
The attacks have raised serious concerns about food security in Birnin-Gwari and the surrounding areas. Agriculture is the backbone of the local economy, and the destruction of these farms could result in significant food shortages and economic hardship for the already vulnerable communities.
Community leaders have expressed frustration, questioning the effectiveness of recent peace efforts and calling for urgent intervention from both state and federal authorities. Many residents fear that without prompt action, the situation could escalate, further endangering lives and worsening the region’s food insecurity.
Local officials have yet to issue a statement, and security forces are reportedly assessing the situation to determine appropriate steps to prevent further attacks.
By PRNigeria