A community in Katsina State, specifically Gatakawa in Kankara Local Government Area, has been forced to sell properties and belongings to pay a ₦20 million levy imposed by bandits. The bandits demand this levy from farmers before allowing them access to their farmlands for harvesting crops. This extortion has caused families to borrow heavily and sell assets to meet the financial demands, trapping them in a cycle of economic hardship. Even after paying the levy, bandits often return with additional demands, adding to the residents' psychological and financial burden. Local leaders have appealed to state and federal authorities to intervene, as current peace agreements have not improved security in the area, leaving the community vulnerable and fearful.
