Residents of Diko Community Protest Acquisition of Farmland for Solar Project
Residents of Diko town in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State staged a peaceful protest on Tuesday over the government’s acquisition of 500 hectares of farmland for a proposed industrial solar energy project.
The demonstration attracted a large number of youths and community members, with traditional masquerades leading the procession through major roads in the town. Protesters carried placards, chanted slogans and performed cultural displays to express their opposition to the development.
Throughout the march, participants repeatedly voiced their rejection of the land acquisition, insisting that the community was neither properly consulted nor adequately involved before the decision was made.
The protesters later gathered at the site reportedly designated for the project, where they intensified their demonstration through drumming, dancing and other traditional activities as a symbolic expression of resistance.
Community members argued that the affected land serves as a major source of livelihood for residents, many of whom depend on farming for income and sustenance. They warned that losing such a vast area of agricultural land could negatively impact food production and the economic wellbeing of families in the area.
Several residents expressed concern that the project could leave farmers with limited land for cultivation, threatening both household incomes and the broader local economy.
The protesters appealed to the Niger State Government to review its decision and engage in further consultations with affected communities before proceeding with the project.
They maintained that reversing the acquisition would help preserve peace, protect livelihoods and promote mutual understanding between the government and local residents.
As of the time of the protest, state authorities had not issued an official response to the concerns raised by the community.
