“Communities in Niger State Say They Paid N7M to Bandits, Seek Help”

Several communities in the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State are reportedly living under constant terror, with villagers forced to pay millions of naira to armed bandits just to survive.

The affected areas, including Makera, Galapai, Chukuba, Ushaka, Manini, Kawuri, Bakarie, Utako, and Magana, are said to be largely under the control of terrorists, leaving residents exposed and state security practically absent.

Speaking to VOP NG during the online radio program Tsalle Daya on Tuesday, Alhaji Yahaya, a resident of Galadima Ward, described the daily struggles faced by communities under siege.

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“I came to your studio to voice our frustration. There is no peace in our communities. In Galadima Ward, Shiroro LGA, we negotiate with bandits every day just to survive,” Yahaya said.

He explained that the villagers have no choice but to comply with the bandits’ demands.

“Communities from Makera, Galapai, Chukuba, Ushaka, Manini, Kawuri, Bakarie I, Utako, Magana, and others are under siege. We pay up to ₦7 million in levies to bandits so we can live in our homes,” he added.

Yahaya highlighted the severe financial and psychological toll on residents, noting that even nominal security presence is limited and ineffective.

“The only place with some security is between Galadima and Erena. Beyond that, the surrounding communities are fully controlled by bandits,” he said.

He further pointed out the lack of regular patrols and protection.

“There is a place called Unguwar Kawo, not far from us, but even when terrorists raid, the military doesn’t respond. We wanted to raise our voices because the problem persists, yet many assume security has improved,” Yahaya stated.

He revealed that communities recently paid another ₦7 million as part of a “peace deal,” showing how deeply entrenched the extortion system has become.

“Less than a week ago, we paid ₦7 million to bandits. Anyone who refuses must leave the community. This has been going on for three years,” he explained.
“Every married man is expected to pay. They come heavily armed, sometimes at night, and spend hours with the village head. They only leave when money is handed over.”

Yahaya also shared his personal experience as a former vigilante.

“I used to serve as a vigilante, but I quit because it’s impossible to defeat these terrorists. During my service, my wife was abducted, and we had to pay ransom for her release,” he recalled.

He concluded with an urgent plea to the state government.

“We’ve tried everything, but nothing has worked. We are appealing to Governor Umaru Bago to hear our cries and intervene immediately,” Yahaya said.

VOP NG will continue to follow the situation closely as communities in Shiroro seek urgent government intervention.