Jun 14, 2026

Bandits Slaughter Seventeen Farmers in Zamfara Farmlands Attack

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Maradun, Zamfara State – June 14, 2026 - At least 17 farmers were brutally killed and several others injured when armed bandits stormed farmlands in Goron Namaye village, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, on Friday, June 12, 2026.

Eyewitnesses and local officials described how the attackers, some on motorbikes and posing as visitors, concealed their weapons before suddenly opening fire on farmers working their fields during the early rainy season planting period.

The assault left 17 people dead on the spot, with reports of bodies later laid out for mass burial on simple wooden stretchers amid large crowds of grieving relatives and community members.

At least 13 others sustained varying degrees of injuries, some critically.

Eyewitness and Official Accounts

A resident of Maradun, Shehu Musa, told the Associated Press that the farmers were working when the bandits suddenly attacked.

Another local, Ibrahim Mohammed, recounted: “Suddenly, the bandits who were in large numbers invaded the farmlands and started to shoot at the farmers. They were able to kill 17 farmers, while several others sustained various degrees of injuries.” Sanusi Dosara, the political administrator of Maradun district, confirmed receiving reports of the killings.

Community leader Abubakar Jarra stated that 17 people were buried following the attack and called on authorities to deploy security personnel to protect farmers.

Some residents suggested the attack may have been a reprisal for vigilante groups killing 13 suspected bandits in an earlier raid on the village.

Warnings Ignored and Broader Pattern

Reports indicate that the bandits had previously issued warnings threatening anyone who ventured to the farms during the planting season.

Despite these threats, farmers proceeded with their work, highlighting the desperate economic need amid Nigeria’s ongoing food security challenges.

The incident forms part of a disturbing pattern of attacks by armed groups across Nigeria’s northwest, where banditry, kidnappings, and cattle rustling have intensified in recent months, particularly targeting rural farming communities.

Amnesty International Condemns Inaction

Amnesty International Nigeria strongly condemned the killings, describing them as part of “incessant atrocities” committed by bandits and armed groups.

The organisation criticised Nigerian authorities for what it called “lethargy” that has allowed impunity to flourish, spreading fear and suffering to communities already living in constant dread.

It accused the government of displaying “gross incompetence” and failing in its fundamental duty to protect citizens’ lives.

Impact on Farming and Food Security

Lawmaker Maharazu Salisu of the Zamfara State House of Assembly warned that unless urgent action is taken by both state and federal governments, residents may be prevented from farming this year.

He noted that bandits in the area appear intent on halting agricultural activities entirely, rather than solely seeking ransom.

This latest attack underscores the deadly risks farmers face, threatening livelihoods and potentially exacerbating food shortages in a region already grappling with insecurity.

The massacre in Goron Namaye serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of unchecked banditry in Nigeria’s northwest.

As the rainy season progresses and farming becomes even more critical, communities are left pleading for enhanced security to allow them to work their lands without fear of the next attack.