Protestors in Niger oppose farmland acquisition for solar project, wearing disguises

By Wole Mosadomi, Minna

On Tuesday, masked performers in full regalia led a peaceful protest in Diko town, Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State, against the state government’s acquisition of 500 hectares of farmland for an industrial solar farm associated with Abuja Steel Mills Limited.

The demonstrators, mainly youths and community members, marched through the town’s main streets, chanting slogans and holding placards to voice their opposition to the land transfer.

With drums and traditional performances, the crowd repeatedly shouted, “Ba ma yi, Ba ma so” – meaning “We don’t want it, we won’t accept it” – condemning what they called a forceful and illegal seizure of ancestral land.

Residents claimed the land was handed over to the company without proper consultation or the consent of the affected communities.

Local sources said the protesters moved around the town before gathering at the site where government officials had reportedly completed the formal transfer to the company.

At the location, the masquerades, along with youths, middle‑aged men and women, intensified their demonstration with extended drumming and dancing, symbolically rejecting the project.

Speaking to journalists, several residents explained that the land is a major source of livelihood for the town and nearby settlements.

They said the acquisition threatens their farming activities and economic survival.

“We are predominantly farmers in this town and neighbouring communities. If such a large portion of our land is taken away for a company, we will be left with little or nothing to sustain ourselves,” a resident who requested anonymity said.

The protestors urged the Niger State Government to reconsider its decision and reverse the acquisition in the interest of peace and community development.

“We appeal to the state government to have a rethink over its decision to acquire the land for the Abuja Steel Mills Limited Solar Farm. The decision is unacceptable and should be reversed immediately to allow peace to reign in our communities,” the resident added.

The state government had not yet officially responded to the protest at the time of this report.