By Nana Ismail

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Command, has refuted a report circulating in the media alleging that its personnel stationed at the Dansoshiya grazing reserve are extorting money from farmers.

The Command described the claims as false, unfounded, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish its image.

In a statement signed by SC Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, the NSCDC emphasized that its officers have never demanded or collected any money or inducement from farmers in the name of fines or fees for clearing farmland.

“Conversely, it may interest the public to know that some individuals in the area had, on different occasions, offered bribes to be allowed to clear land for farming, which our operatives declined and turned down,” the statement noted.

“Since then, some disgruntled elements among them vowed to smear our name — a move they’ve started but which will not bear any fruit.”

The Corps reiterated its commitment to protecting and safeguarding the 3,000-hectare Dansoshiya grazing reserve from encroachment, stressing that any unauthorized activity on the land remains illegal and punishable under the law.

“There is a State High Court order restraining encroachment into the grazing reserve, and the Corps has been directed to ensure full compliance,” the statement added.

The Command also raised concerns over intelligence reports indicating plans by some miscreants to cause chaos around Dansoshiya during the weekend.

It warned the alleged planners to desist, stressing that it would not tolerate any breach of public peace.

While assuring law-abiding farmers of their safety ahead of the rainy season, the NSCDC reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring security in farming areas across the state.

The Dansoshiya grazing reserve initiative is part of the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP), being implemented by MCI Nigeria Limited in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank.