Residents of Maburya community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State have reportedly paid armed bandits ₦2.6 million in an attempt to secure access to their farms, but the group has continued to prevent them from engaging in farming activities despite an earlier peace agreement.
The armed group reportedly rejected an initial payment of ₦1 million demanded from the community, forcing residents to raise the amount to ₦2.6 million.
However, rather than allowing the residents to return to their farmlands after collecting the money, the bandits allegedly summoned members of the community and demanded additional payments.
They reportedly warned that nobody would be permitted to access their farms until their latest demands were fully met.
The development was disclosed on Saturday, November 14, by security and conflict reporter Bakatsine, who raised concerns over the continued intimidation and extortion of residents despite the reported peace agreement.
According to the report, the armed men have also allegedly continued seizing motorcycles, mobile phones and money belonging to community members.
The situation has left residents facing uncertainty and growing hardship, particularly as many households depend on farming for their food supply and means of livelihood.
Despite efforts by the community to reach an understanding with the armed group through negotiations and financial payments, residents are reportedly still unable to carry out their normal agricultural activities.
The latest incident has raised fresh concerns about the effectiveness of peace agreements between rural communities and armed groups in Niger State.
With access to farmland still restricted and additional financial demands being imposed, residents of Maburya remain exposed to economic difficulties and threats to their livelihoods.
