Zamfara Bandit Leader Demands 150kg of Gold as ‘Protection Levy’ from Local Communities

A notorious bandit leader, identified as Sani Black, has reportedly demanded 150 kilograms of pure gold from four communities in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State as a “protection levy”—a significant departure from the usual demands for cash or livestock.

The affected communities—Dada, Gidan Shaho, Marmaro, and Rimni—have been issued an ultimatum by the armed group, marking an alarming shift in the tactics of criminal gangs operating in the region.

Local sources believe the demand is linked to alleged illegal gold mining activities in the area, which have drawn increasing interest from armed groups seeking new revenue streams.

“He believes several of them have access to gold,” said a youth leader who spoke anonymously due to security concerns. Another resident added, “The terrorists know we no longer have money or animals to give them, so they’re asking for gold, which they believe we can provide.”

Zamfara, like much of northwestern Nigeria, has suffered over a decade of violence involving banditry, extortion, kidnappings, and targeted killings. In some cases, armed factions have taken control of mining sites to exploit the region’s gold resources directly.

In response to the threat, residents in the affected communities are reportedly weighing their options—either finding ways to gather the demanded gold or attempting to negotiate a reduction in the quantity.