Bandits Attack Cashew Farmers in Kogi, Kill Two in Separate Incidents
Armed men have killed two cashew farmers in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State in separate attacks over the weekend, heightening fears about the deteriorating security situation in the region's farming communities.
Details of the Tragic Attacks
According to reports from the area, one Gideon Etsu, a Nupe by tribe and cleric from Akpata'aje in Ejiba community, was shot and killed on his cashew farm on Sunday afternoon, February 22, 2026. The incident occurred when the cleric went to his cashew farm on the outskirts of the community.
Gideon Etsu, who served as a community leader and secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Ejiba, was murdered in what residents describe as a brutal attack. His attackers are suspected to be armed bandits operating within the forests around the communities.
"His locally made gun was destroyed during the attack, and his assailants left his lifeless body severely mutilated before fleeing the scene," said a resident of the community who simply wants to be identified as John.
Second Victim Falls to Bandit Violence
Another victim, identified as Joseph Jones, a native of Odo-Eri, reportedly fell under his assailants' bullets in similar circumstances on Saturday while returning from his cashew farm. The fate of his companion, said to have gone missing since the incident, remains unknown at this time.
These tragic deaths have increased the number of cashew farmers reportedly attacked in Yagba West in recent days to about six, according to local residents. The pattern of violence has raised fresh concerns over the security challenges facing agricultural communities in the area.
Local Government Response and Security Advisory
The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area and Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Tosin Olokun, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incidents.
In a statement signed by Adeyemi Babarinde Sunday, the spokesman of the LGA, the chairman extended heartfelt condolences to the families of both victims. "Hon. Olokun shares in the grief of the bereaved families and prays for divine comfort, strength and fortitude for all those affected by these painful and unfortunate incidents," the statement read.
The chairman specifically mentioned Joseph Jones, an indigene of Odo Ere community who was killed on Saturday, February 21, 2026, while picking cashew nuts along Saminaka Road axis in Odo Eri, and Pastor Gideon Etsu, who lost his life on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in his cashew farm in Ejiba along Omi Road.
Security Precautions for Farmers
In response to these attacks, Chairman Olokun has advised all cashew farmers and other agricultural operators to avoid accessing farms, particularly in remote or isolated areas, without adequate security presence.
The precautionary directive is aimed at safeguarding lives and minimizing exposure to criminal threats. The chairman urged strict compliance with this advisory in the interest of personal and community safety, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance during farming activities.
The attacks highlight the ongoing security challenges facing agricultural communities in Kogi State and raise questions about protection measures for farmers who are essential to the local economy and food production.
