Plateau farmers cry out over drought as rainfall delays

Farmers in Plateau State, especially those in the southern zone comprising of local Langtang North, Langtang South, Mikang, Shendam, Wase and Qua-an Pan LGAs have cried out over the delay in rainfall which has impacted on their crops.

According to the farmers, the lack of rain in the zone as compared to other parts of the state which have been experiencing steady rainfall has left crops like maize, rice, groundnuts, millet and beans, withered and could lead to food shortage.

The disturbed farmers who spoke, raised the alarm while speaking with journalists on the situation, saying the zone is experiencing late rainfall this farming season, unlike what they have witnessed in the past.

One of the worried farmers, Nandul Solomon, a resident of Langtang South, said the drought, as a result of the delayed rainfall has left crops drying up.

Solomon said in the last one month, the rain has ceased and even when it comes, it only drizzles and not enough to nourish the crops.

He further explained that this year’s short rainfall has left many farmers worried about the potential impact on crop yields and food security, noting that if the drought continues, farmers could lose millions of naira considering that the crops have not yet reached maturity level.

Another farmer, Yusuf Maidoki, a resident of Yelwa community in Shendam LGA, lamented the development.

“I have planted groundnuts in large quantities and expect a bumper harvest, but with this development, I’m worried about the outcome. We hope it rains anytime soon.”

Also lamenting the drought, another farmer, Joseph Domle, a resident of Langtang North LGA, said it would be devastating if the shortage of rain continues as their means of livelihood would be seriously affected.

“We have been facing short rainfall in our area since the farming season started. We hope it rains soon because the situation is worrisome,” he stated.