Bandits have Imposed nearly N200 million Levy on several communities in Zurmi Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State. This levy has put immense pressure on the residents to raise the funds quickly.
The affected villages and their respective levies include Yan Dolen Kaura (N15 million), Gidan Zagi (N15 million), Kanwa (N20 million), Kaiwa Lamba (N26 million), Gidan Dan Zara (N22 million), Jinkirawa (N16 million), Dumfawa (N16 million), Ruguje (N7 million), Babani (N3 million), and Gidan Duwa (N4 million).
Residents are scrambling to gather the money. Some villages have already paid, while others are struggling to meet the demands. Villagers have resorted to seeking menial jobs in nearby towns to raise the required amounts.
Related Stories
- Bandits Abduct Over 500 Residents and Kill Seven, Including Two Policemen, in Zamfara State Attacks
- Gov. Radda alleges banditry now business venture for government officials, security agencies
Malam Yunusa Musa, a resident of Zurmi town, said the levies took effect this week.
“The most unfortunate thing is that the residents of Turawa paid N15 million, but their relatives have not been released by the bandits. Several villages have already paid levies ranging from N26 million to N3 million,” he said.
Another resident, Malam Haruna Ilu, noted that many villagers are heading to urban areas to find work and gather the funds. The fear for their safety has grown, prompting calls for increased security in the region.
Recently, soldiers deployed to Zurmi intervened by chasing away bandits who had followed residents into neighboring villages, firing sporadically. Ilu appealed to the government for urgent help.
“We need enhanced security measures to safeguard our lives and properties from these ongoing threats,” he said.