Farmers in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State have lamented that they were not able to plant crops this season because insecurity keeps worsening and bandits come into the area on a regular basis.
The residents say that incessant attacks by armed groups have scared them away from their farms, with fear of abduction and cattle rustling putting a stop to farming and keeping animals their principal sources of livelihood.
Speaking to reporters, Garga community’s Gambo Musa complained, “There is no farming this year because we cannot access our farms. We are always afraid. Even if rain comes, it’s too late for us to plant and harvest properly.”
Similarly, Abdulaziz Adam of Gyangyen village explained how villagers are now locked up in fear. “If you go to the farm, you risk getting kidnapped. We cannot pay ransom, and those trying to farm are the most vulnerable.”
Usman Adamu, another farmer, added that apart from disrupting cultivation, bandits have stolen their cattle, aggravating the economic crisis in the area.
The attacks have touched over 15 affected communities, including Garga, Dadin Kowa, Gada, Keram, Gyanbahu, Dungur, Wanka, Kukawa, and Shuwaka. Farmers in these areas are calling on the government to move into action as quickly as possible, with threats that widespread famine will be induced if left unaddressed.
LEADERSHIP reports that the two LGAs of Kanam and Wase have been attacked on multiple occasions. Retired Rainbow Brigadier General Gakji Shipi, Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Special Adviser on Security and Coordinator of Operations, has ratified that the two LGAs remain vulnerable to attack since they lie close to the Odare forest crossing Plateau, Bauchi, and Taraba states.
He also added that concerted efforts are underway with neighboring states to contain growing insecurity and restore peace in the turbulent communities.
