Bandits Demand Ransom from Benue Farmer

In Nigeria — Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Nigeria — Benue State, Nigeria, a farmer was attacked by suspected bandits who demanded a ransom of N500,000 before allowing him to harvest his crops. The farmer, who combines farming with public service, was initially given three days to pay, later extended to one week. After he struggled to raise the money, the bandits abducted his mother, who was later released after being tortured. The farmer managed to pay N200,000, but the bandits insisted on the full amount before granting full access to his farm. Facing continued threats over the remaining N300,000, the farmer fled the area, leaving his crops unharvested. The incident was disclosed by his son, John James, a student at Benue State University, during a workshop organized by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) in Makurdi. The event highlights the impact of insecurity on farming communities in Nigeria — Benue State, with residents reportedly reluctant to report attacks to police due to fear of reprisal.