Yobe govt reacts as terrorists impose taxes on farmers

The Yobe State Government has pledged to intensify security operations to counter renewed Boko Haram insurgent activities, including the imposition of illegal taxes on farmers in parts of the state.

Idi Barde Gubana, the Deputy Governor of Yobe State made the commitment during the 18th Security Council Meeting at the Government House in Damaturu on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

Gubana, who represented the governor, Mai Mala-Buni, said the emergency meeting was convened in response to recent attacks on military formations across the state.

He also expressed concern over terrorists’ activities in Yunusari, Geidam, and Tarmuwa Local Government Areas, where residents and farmers are being forced to pay levies and taxes.

“You may recall that in recent days there have been several attacks on our army formations, as well as the levies and taxes being forced on our people in Yunusari, Geidam and Tarmuwa local government areas and other parts of the state,” Gubana said.

He further stated that the meeting would also address other pressing security challenges, including farmer-herder clashes, housebreaking, and other criminal activities threatening peaceful coexistence.

“We are here to discuss how to ensure that we contain these criminalities among our people, because the main policy of our government is the protection of lives and property,” he said.

Noting that the state has for some time enjoyed relative peace, Gubana said the recent incidents have called for heightened vigilance.

“We have experienced a little peace, but with the recent occurrences we have to tighten our belts to ensure that we contain all forms of criminality in our society,” he added.

The deputy governor also extended the state government’s condolences to the families of soldiers and police officers killed in the recent attack on the Northeast Theatre Training School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area.