Attahiru Bafarawa's account of how banditry forced him to abandon his extensive farmland in Kaduna State is a stark illustration of the pervasive impact of insecurity on agricultural activities and food production in Nigeria.
His narrative highlights the harrowing reality faced by many farmers across the country, who live in fear of bandit attacks and are subjected to the whims of criminal elements. The fact that farmers in his district have to seek permission from bandits before venturing into their own fields is a distressing testament to the breakdown of law and order in affected areas.
The loss of such a vast tract of land, which had been cultivated for decades, not only represents a personal setback for Bafarawa but also contributes to the broader challenge of food insecurity in Nigeria. The disruption of agricultural operations due to insecurity exacerbates the already high cost of food items, further burdening households and exacerbating poverty.
Bafarawa's call for genuine collaboration between all levels of government to address insecurity is timely and imperative. Indeed, the responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens rests with both federal and state authorities, as well as local government administrations. Concerted efforts are needed to tackle the root causes of insecurity, strengthen security infrastructure, and provide support to communities affected by violence.
His warning about the urgency of the situation should serve as a wake-up call for leaders at all levels to prioritize the restoration of peace and stability in affected regions. Failure to do so not only threatens livelihoods and economic stability but also undermines the fundamental rights of citizens to live in safety and dignity.
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