Residents of Gassa Community in Ropp District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area have been thrown into distress following the destruction of farmlands reportedly spanning over four hectares by suspected Fulani militants.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 15, 2026, affected more than thirteen farms cultivating maize and hot pepper, according to a statement issued by the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM).
In the statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the association alleged that the attackers deployed hazardous herbicides on the farms overnight, leading to widespread destruction of crops that were close to harvest.
A victim of the attack disclosed that the chemicals were applied across dry-season irrigation farmlands, with hot pepper crops already being harvested, among the worst affected. The act, according to the victim, appeared aimed not only at destroying produce but also at discouraging farmers from returning to their fields.
The BYM described the development as a “full-scale economic war,” accusing the perpetrators of combining violent attacks with deliberate efforts to cripple the economic base of local communities through agricultural sabotage.
The association noted that similar incidents were recorded in 2025 in parts of Fan District within the same local government area, where crops nearing harvest were also destroyed under comparable circumstances.
Residents say crops that were previously green and healthy have begun to wither, raising fears of significant economic losses and worsening food insecurity in the area.
The group expressed concern that such attacks could undermine ongoing efforts to boost food production, particularly as the rainy season approaches and irrigation harvests are underway.
BYM President, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, called on government and security agencies to take decisive measures to halt the trend, urging a thorough investigation into the incident and prosecution of those responsible.
The association also appealed for increased surveillance in farming communities, particularly by the Agro Rangers security outfit, to safeguard agricultural activities and protect farmers from further attacks.
The incident has heightened tensions in Gassa and surrounding communities, with residents calling for urgent intervention to prevent escalation and ensure the safety of livelihoods dependent on farming.
