Sani Yakubu, a member of the House of Representatives from Tangaza/Gudu Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, has expressed concern, claiming that local bandits and jihadists operating in Tangaza Local Government of the state have levied a tax on farmers in the region. These jihadists are from Niger, Mali, and Libya.
Yakubu stated that the Tangaza/Gudu Federal Constituency is encircled by two forests: Kuyan Bana Forest, which also extends to Gudu and Niger Republic, and Tsauna Forest, which extends to Gwadabawa, Illela, and Niger Republic. Yakubu made this statement when presenting a resolution at plenary yesterday.
Yakubu revealed that the local terrorists had banded together and claimed they had pledged to make life tough for the area’s primarily agricultural population.
He said: “The two forests house two terrorist groups, the Lakurawa who claimed to be jihadists from Niger, Mali and Libya and the local bandits terrorising the area.
“The two used to be sworn enemies, but have now joined forces, making it more difficult for the deployed security operatives to address the insecurity in the general area.
“After the deadly act, the terrorist launched another attack to prevent people from giving their loved ones a befitting burial.
“The people of the area are predominantly farmers and cattle rearers and terrorists have vowed to stop this year’s farming activities, if the communities refuse to pay tax.
‘’If this threat is allowed, it will seriously affect the national food security if adequate measures are not put in place.”
The House adopted the proposal and requested the military to send out more soldiers and equipment to search the woodlands for offenders. The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, was additionally requested to deliver aid supplies to the sad attack victims.
Ikenga Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato South and North seat federal district in Imo State, also discussed the matter yesterday. She said it was concerning that terrorists from the region’s neighboring African nations were taxing Nigerian farmers.
According to Ugochinyere, the development amounts to a challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
However, he expressed confidence that the offenders would be expelled under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“It’s worrisome and it threatens our sovereignty as a nation. Just as the House resolved, it requires urgent attention.
‘’Our security agencies need to re-strategize to flush out criminals and terrorists. With the resolve and commitment of the present administration, I have no doubt that soon, they will be defeated,” he said.
