By Adenike Lawal
Terror swept through farming communities in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State after armed extremists, believed to be members of the Lakurawa terror group, issued chilling threats to local farmers.
The group reportedly ordered that only cattle-powered farming be used, warning that anyone caught operating tractors or other machinery would be executed.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama first disclosed the development, calling attention to what he described as a disturbing evolution in terror tactics-dictating not just land access but how farming itself should be conducted.
Residents confirmed that the warnings have been spreading across several villages, triggering fear and disrupting farm work.
“The situation is unbearable,” said one farmer. “Our cattle are being stolen constantly, so many of us turned to machinery. Now, that too could get us killed. We have no safe option left.”
Farmers say the threats compound existing problems in the area, already battered by banditry and cattle rustling.
In April, 13 vigilante members were killed in Morai village during a confrontation with suspected Lakurawa fighters while attempting to retrieve stolen livestock.
Authorities say the situation is being taken seriously.
Kebbi State Police spokesperson Nafiu Abubakar confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, residents are urging the federal government and security agencies to launch immediate interventions before the crisis spirals out of control.
