Tension Rises in Zamfara as Bandits Force Villages to Pay Millions in Levies

Residents of several communities in Zamfara State are facing an escalating crisis as bandit kingpin Dogo Gide has imposed hefty levies on them, ranging from N2.5 million to N20 million. The largest levies were placed on Kunchin-Kalgo (N20 million), Sungawa (N15 million), and Rakyabu (N15 million). Other affected villages include Kwaren Mai-Saje (N10 million), Magazawa (N10 million), Gijin-Zama (N8.5 million), and many more.

The bandits have targeted over a dozen villages, with demands also including Unguwar Rogo, Machiya, Katuga, and Tsageru, among others. The total amount for some of these communities is as high as N7 million, while others face levies of N3 million and N2.5 million. The heavy toll is causing growing fear, as residents scramble to meet these demands amid growing threats of violent retaliation.

In a statement to Channels Television, Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dalijan, confirmed the imposition of the levies but assured that security forces have been deployed to safeguard the communities. “It is true that the bandit leader, Dogo Gide, imposed levies on several villages, but we have ensured that security agencies are present in those areas,” Dalijan stated, adding that no community has been abandoned despite the threats.

The imposition of such levies has become a frequent strategy by armed groups in Zamfara, further exacerbating the state’s insecurity. Despite the challenges, CP Dalijan emphasized that no village has been deserted, and authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of residents.

As the situation continues to unfold, residents are calling for more decisive action from both state and federal authorities to end the banditry and restore peace in the region.