Bandits Demand N10m Levy from Katsina Communities Despite Peace Deals

Fear has gripped residents of Garin Lamido and Yan Shuni in Bakori LGA, Katsina State, after bandits loyal to notorious leaderIsiya Kwashen Garwa imposed a fresh N10 million levy on each community.

The demand comes even after multiple peace agreements were brokered between local authorities, community leaders, and armed groups.

Security analyst and crisis journalist Bakastine broke the news on X, warning that rural communities remain exposed despite ongoing peace efforts.

The new levy has sparked panic, with many families abandoning their homes over fears of imminent attacks. Sources in the affected areas say tension is running high, especially given the limited security presence.

Residents say they’re tired of the endless cycle of peace deals that are quickly broken. “Such arrangements, often referred to locally as ‘peace deals,’ have failed to provide lasting security, instead creating a cycle of intimidation and forced compliance,” one source noted.

This isn’t an isolated case. Across several North-West communities, armed groups have made levy payments a condition for temporary peace often followed by attacks if demands aren’t met.

Despite ongoing military operations in parts of Katsina, bandits still maintain control in many rural areas. Farmers are now the most affected, with many unable to access their farmlands without risking violence.

Security experts warn that paying levies only strengthens bandits and encourages them to expand into more villages. Bakastine questioned whether current security strategies have enough enforcement to actually protect vulnerable communities.

The N10m bandit levy in Katsina shows how fragile peace remains in North-West Nigeria. Until there’s stronger enforcement and accountability, rural communities will continue to live under the threat of intimidation and extortion.