An emotional video of a farmer crying bitterly over the destruction of his crops in Dugun-Muazu, Sabuwa local government area of Katsina State, has gone viral on social media.
It sparked outrage and sympathy across the state.
In the clip, the distressed farmer wept and prayed to God to judge those responsible for the loss of his farmland, which, he said, was his only means of survival.
However, the Sabuwa local government area has issued a press statement to clarify the situation, explaining that the farmland clearance was not an act of cruelty or political victimisation but a security measure taken to protect the people.
According to the council chairman, Hon. Sagir Tanimu, the decision to clear farmlands near forested and hilly areas was reached during a meeting of security stakeholders involving traditional leaders, religious scholars, community representatives, and security agencies.
He revealed that on July 23, 2025, armed bandits used thick farmlands as a hideout to launch an attack on Dugun-Muazu town, leading to the loss of lives and property.
To prevent future attacks, a resolution was adopted to enforce a 200-meter buffer zone from the edge of forests and mountains where farming is prohibited.
“People are not allowed to plant tall, dense crops like maize and sugarcane within that buffer zone because they serve as cover for bandits. This is not a political decision, but a collective effort to ensure public safety”, the statement stated.
The council acknowledged the pain of affected farmers, like the one in the viral video, but appealed for understanding, stressing that the decision was necessary for the greater good.
“Security must take priority,” Tanimu added. “We call on all residents to comply with the directive to avoid future tragedies.”
The council assured the public of its commitment to peace and community engagement while urging farmers to seek guidance before planting near restricted areas.
The incident has highlighted the complex intersection between agriculture and security in vulnerable communities, where the threat of banditry has continued to reshape daily life and government policy.
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