By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Farmers in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria, are living in fear after receiving threats from a terrorist group suspected to be Lakurawa. The group has warned them to stop using tractors and other modern farming tools, demanding a return to traditional cattle-based methods.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported that the terrorists have made it clear: any farmer caught using mechanised equipment will be killed. The warning has spread panic in several communities, especially as many farmers had begun using machines due to the increasing loss of cattle to rustlers.
“They don’t allow us to use machines, but they also steal our cattle,” said a local resident. “We’re just trying to feed our families and earn a living, but they’re making it nearly impossible.”
An intelligence source confirmed that the threats had been widely circulated among villages in Augie. Community leaders are now urging the Nigerian government and military to take immediate action to protect the people.
The area has suffered several violent attacks over the past year, with the same group blamed for killing 13 vigilantes in April during an ambush in Morai village, also in Augie LGA.
When contacted, Kebbi State Police spokesman Nafiu Abubakar said the situation would be investigated.
