By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Farmers in parts of Southern Kaduna are being forced by armed bandits to cultivate and harvest crops for them, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Chikun Local Government Area, Rev. Aminu Ayuba, has alleged.
Rev. Ayuba made the appeal during an interview, urging Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, to take urgent action against the renewed wave of kidnappings and banditry in Chikun and Kajuru Local Government Areas.
According to a report aired by the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC) on Wednesday, the cleric said the disturbing trend of bandits enslaving farmers in their own communities is worsening food insecurity and deepening fear among residents.
He explained that while the level of kidnapping and violent attacks had dropped significantly when the current administration assumed office, criminal activities have resurfaced this year, threatening the fragile peace in the region.
Rev. Ayuba further declared support for the U.S. government’s decision to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern”, citing the persistent killings, abductions, and destruction of property by terrorists across the nation.
“Nigeria has witnessed years of bloodshed and displacement caused by these criminal elements. The U.S. stance may help bring renewed attention and action toward restoring peace and protecting human rights,” he stated.
The cleric expressed optimism that international intervention could aid in ending the violence, restoring stability, and ensuring that affected communities return to normal life.
Reaffirming CAN’s commitment to peace, justice, and unity, Rev. Ayuba urged citizens across the country to join hands in addressing insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
“We must not allow fear to divide us. As Nigerians, we share a common goal—to live in safety and dignity. It is time to work collectively toward achieving lasting peace,” he added.
Sources familiar with developments in the affected areas confirmed the allegations, noting that some bandit groups have established settlements in communities previously abandoned by displaced residents.
Residents fear that unless urgent action is taken, these criminal strongholds could expand, worsening the humanitarian situation and undermining state security efforts.
Observers have continued to call for stronger coordination between security agencies, local vigilante groups, and community leaders to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
The situation in Southern Kaduna remains a major concern for both state authorities and humanitarian groups, as bandit activities continue to disrupt farming, education, and local commerce in the region.
