The affected communities - Dada, Gidan Shaho, Marmaro, and Rimni - have been given a deadline to comply with the demand, which marks a shift from the usual demands for cash or livestock.
Local sources suggest that the demand may be linked to the residents' alleged involvement in illegal gold mining, which has attracted the attention of armed groups seeking alternative revenue sources.
A youth leader, who spoke anonymously, said the demand likely stems from the belief that many locals are engaged in mining. "He believes several of them have access to gold," the source said.
Another resident added, "The terrorists know we no longer have money or animals to give them, so they're asking for gold, which they believe we can provide."
Zamfara and other parts of Nigeria's northwest have faced persistent insecurity for over a decade, with armed groups carrying out killings, abductions, and extortion. Some factions have seized control of mining sites to exploit gold directly.
Residents in the affected communities are reportedly discussing how to either gather the gold or negotiate a reduction in the quantity demanded.