Farmers in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State have reportedly received threats from terrorists believed to be members of the Lakurawa group, warning them against replacing traditional cattle-driven farming methods with mechanised equipment.
According to reports by security analyst Zagazola Makama, the terrorists warned that anyone found using mechanised tools in place of cattle for farming would be executed. The warning has triggered fear and panic among residents of affected communities, many of whom had begun shifting to modern farming techniques in response to ongoing cattle rustling in the region.
“Now, the terrorists are dictating how we should farm,” a local source was quoted as saying. “They forbid us from using machines. When we use cattle, they seize them. We’re farming both for sustenance and commercial purposes.”
An intelligence source also reportedly confirmed that the threats were genuine and circulated among several villages in Augie LGA. Community members are now calling for urgent intervention from the Nigerian military and government.
The area has suffered repeated attacks and widespread cattle rustling, allegedly by the same group. In April, at least 13 vigilantes were killed in Morai village, also in Augie LGA, after suspected Lakurawa gunmen ambushed them during a failed attempt to recover stolen livestock.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Kebbi State, Nafiu Abubakar, said he would investigate the development.
