The Chairman of Bukkuyum Local Government Area in Zamfara State, Abubakar Umar Faru, has disclosed that communities within the council have paid more than ₦2.9 billion to armed bandits in the form of ransom and illegal levies since 2015.

Faru explained that the payments were extracted across all 17 districts of the local government, which have endured persistent attacks by bandits, leading to widespread killings, kidnappings, and severe economic hardship.

In an interview with DCL Hausa, the council chairman revealed that no fewer than 1,060 people have lost their lives in the area over the past ten years. He added that agricultural activities were completely halted in 2025 as a result of worsening insecurity.

According to him, official records compiled from the 17 districts show that 1,065 residents were killed, while more than ₦2.9 billion was paid to bandits through ransom demands and compulsory levies. He also noted that thousands of livestock were stolen during the period.

Faru stated that bandits made away with 84,928 cattle, 52,423 goats, and 187 camels, a development that stripped many families of their primary sources of income and means of survival.

He identified Gando Forest as one of the major operational bases for the armed groups and urged the Federal Government to carry out decisive military actions to dismantle bandit camps in the area.

The chairman further revealed that over 200 people, including women and children, have been abducted from various communities in Bukkuyum and are still being held captive.

While appealing to the Federal Government to step up security interventions, Faru acknowledged the efforts of the Zamfara State Government and local authorities but noted that they do not have direct authority over federal security agencies.

He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence, expressing confidence that the move would enhance efforts to combat banditry in Zamfara State.