By Grace Samuel
A perplexing infestation of worms is wreaking havoc on grain plantations across Katsina State, plunging farmers into despair and urgent need for assistance.
The unidentified worm species has rapidly multiplied, attacking and decimating guinea corn, millet, and maize crops, inflicting substantial financial losses on farmers in the region.
Umar Masoyi and Ahmad Labaran, affected farmers, have witnessed an alarming surge in worm populations coinciding with the dry spell and replanting season.
Despite efforts to combat the infestation with insecticides proving futile, farmers are now resorting to prayers in a bid to salvage their harvests.
Reports from the state capital highlight extensive damage inflicted by the worms on farmlands, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
“We have never encountered such a pest before,” lamented Umar Masoyi, expressing frustration over the ineffective insecticide treatments. “Our crops are being devoured and we are at a loss on how to stop them.”
Ahmad Labaran echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We are left with no choice but to seek divine intervention. Our livelihoods depend on these crops, yet they are being destroyed before our eyes.”
The sudden emergence of this worm infestation raises alarming concerns about food security in Katsina State, where grain crops are a staple for many households.
Farmers are urgently calling upon government intervention and expertise from agricultural specialists to devise effective solutions to this unprecedented pest outbreak.
As the situation unfolds, affected farmers remain hopeful that swift action will be taken to mitigate further losses and safeguard future harvests.