The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has asked the Niger State and the Federal Governments to rise up to their responsibilities and protect communities from daily bandit attacks.

The National President of the Association, Dr. Usman Akanbi Oladipo, in a statement, expressed deep concern over assaults on farming communities in Magama, Mariga, Kontagora, Borgu, Rijau and other parts of Niger State.

He said the continuous attacks on the affected farmers not only threatens the safety of victims and other law abiding citizens, but also have a deep negative impact on the country’s food security as well as the agricultural revolution of the Niger State Governor.

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He urged the state and the federal governments to immediately deploy adequate and effective security measures using relevant technology like drones to secure the affected communities to enable the displaced farmers return to their homes to harvest their farm produce.

He said, “The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) is deeply concerned by the daily bandits’ attacks on farming communities in Magama, Mariga, Kontagora, Borgu, Rijau, and other parts of Niger State. These relentless attacks have caused displacements of thousands of farmers, including women and children, destroying livelihoods, and causing severe trauma.

“ANA is concerned about the complete disruption of children’s education in the affected areas. For several years, these children have lost access to education and meaningful upbringing after the killing or displacement of their parents by bandits.

“As writers, educators, and conscience-keepers of Nigerian society, we wish to draw the attention of the Niger State and Federal governments to the lingering plight of these hapless farmers whose contributions to the food security drive of the country and indeed of the Farmer-Governor, His Excellency Umar Bago, can never be underestimated.

“The continuous attacks on these farmers not only threatens the safety of victims and other law abiding citizens, but also have a deep negative impact on the country’s food security as well as the agricultural revolution of the Niger State Governor,” the president added.

The Association also called on both state and federal governments to provide immediate humanitarian support to the displaced families, including food, shelter, and medical care, and as well as prioritise the safe re-opening and protection of schools.

“The Association of Nigerian Authors stands in solidarity with the people of Niger State and all other states affected by violent crimes across the country.

“Securing the lives and livelihoods of rural communities is securing the future of the nation.” he added.