Farmers in Kaduna State Face Devastating Crop Losses as Herdsmen Rampage, Leaving Communities at Risk of Hunger
Farmers in the Manchok community of Kaura Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have reported devastating losses, claiming that herdsmen have ravaged their crops, leaving them facing potential hunger. Mrs. Martina David, a mother of four, shared her distress after investing nearly N1.3 million in cultivating sweet potatoes, only to lose everything within two days when her farm was reportedly destroyed by cattle. She had planted on 188 ridges across four hectares and anticipated a harvest of at least 752 bags, which could have brought her returns of about N12.78 million at current market prices.
“I fell on my knees and cried, wondering how I would repay my loan,” she lamented, emphasizing that her husband, also a farmer, is ill and unable to work this season.
Another affected farmer, Mr. Ibrahim Yashim, described a similar fate with his guinea corn farm, where three out of four hectares were devastated. Yashim invested approximately N730,000 and expected a yield of around 40 bags, which could have netted him over N4.8 million. “I was horrified by what I saw,” he said, recounting how he found his crops destroyed after receiving a tip from his mother.
The farmers have sought help, with local youth leader Mr. La’ah Philemon highlighting that about 39 farms have been impacted. He warned of a “looming hunger” and called for a ban on open grazing during the rainy season to mitigate further destruction. The conflict has escalated, leading to violent confrontations, with one farmer reportedly killed and others injured.
Mr. Ishaya Tabat, the District Head of Manchok, confirmed the incidents and noted that the traditional council is working on solutions, including compensation for the victims from the herders. The Fulani community leader, Ardo Salisu Ibrahim, acknowledged that discussions have been productive and promised that compensation would be forthcoming. He also mentioned that security measures are being implemented to address the issue of wandering herders.
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