By Uzair Adam
Residents of Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State, affected by ongoing security challenges, have reported that terrorists are compelling locals to work on their farms.
In an interview with Daily Trust, the residents recounted how the bandits are forcing the locals into hard labour on their farms.
It was gathered that a terrorist leader reportedly seized over 20 bags of soybeans from farms in Allawa and nearby communities this year.
During an emergency media briefing in Minna, Saidu Salihu, the Secretary of the Coalition of Shiroro Associations, called for the re-deployment of military forces to Allawa and surrounding areas.
This, he said, would allow displaced residents to return to their farms. Salihu explained that various terrorist groups have controlled these communities since soldiers withdrew from the area three months ago.
He urged both federal and state governments to support local vigilante groups to protect the affected residents.
He also requested compensation for those displaced and who have lost homes and livelihoods due to the continued attacks. Salihu also revealed that bandits have initiated negotiations with the local communities to facilitate their return.
However, both the federal and state governments have not responded to these developments.
Abdullah Suleiman Erena, another resident, noted that insecurity in the area extends beyond banditry, involving groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Ansaru.
He warned that if the government does not act urgently, these groups could create a more entrenched terrorist presence in the region.
He described the situation as a growing terrorist ecosystem, noting how these groups force locals to farm and sell their produce on their behalf.
Erena also highlighted the proximity of Shiroro to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which puts the FCT at increased risk.
Sani Abubakar Yusuf Kokki expressed disappointment with the state government’s response, stressing the need for more decisive action.
Also, Babangida Kudodo of the Lakpma Youth Forum mentioned that previous reports to the state government had led to little or no action, allowing the situation to worsen.
Both men called for immediate steps to be taken to dislodge the terrorists from Shiroro LGA and protect the affected communities.