Katsina: ‘Release our leaders, we’ll free all captives’ — Bandits
Katsina State has witnessed a fragile attempt at peace, as 20 out of its 34 local government areas reportedly entered into a truce with bandits amid ongoing insecurity and renewed attacks in some communities.
The agreement, which was reached during a meeting attended by council chairmen and traditional rulers from the participating LGAs, included the bandits’ demand for the release of their colleagues currently in detention across the state. In exchange, the armed groups pledged to free all captives in their custody. Local authorities reportedly agreed to facilitate the process through security agencies and correctional facilities.
The statement was made in Katsina during the signing of the truce, which aimed to halt hostilities and restore some semblance of normalcy in the affected areas. Bandits reportedly arrived at the venue on motorcycles, fired gunshots into the air, and left the meeting in less than an hour. Sources indicate journalists were barred from filming the proceedings due to security concerns.
Despite the agreement, residents remain cautious, questioning the sincerity and effectiveness of the deal. One resident, speaking under anonymity, said his only hope is for lasting peace. “My only hope is for us to regain our freedom from these bandits. Let there be peace. Hundreds have lost their lives. Survivors have lost their livelihoods. Let us start a new life,” he said.
Others called for sustained engagement and monitoring to prevent a breakdown of the fragile pact. “There should be strong committees meeting regularly to consolidate on the gains of the peace deal and make reviews where necessary,” a resident said.
