Katsina Cautions Repentant Bandits: Respect Peace Pact or Face Consequences
The Katsina State Government has issued a stern warning to repentant bandits, urging them to honour recent peace agreements or face severe consequences.
Addressing journalists on Monday, Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, emphasised that the state government, led by Governor Dikko Radda, is not in any negotiation with bandits but is open to peaceful reintegration for those who willingly lay down their arms.
“The position of government is very clear, from ab initio, the government of Katsina under Dikko Radda will not negotiate with bandits,” Mu’azu said.
His remarks come days after Ado Aleru, a wanted bandit leader with a N5 million bounty on his head, was seen at a peace meeting in Bichi community, Danmusa LGA, addressing residents, security officials, and traditional leaders.
While meetings have led to some bandits in Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa LGAs embracing peace, Mu’azu warned that any breach of these agreements would not be tolerated.
“We will give them the opportunity for them to continue with normal activities, but in case they renege on their promises, we are going to deal with them as we used to,” he stated.
He confirmed that discussions with ex-bandits were initiated by the communities, not the government.
“Alhamdulillah, the discussions were robust and we are having peaceful activities in both Jibia and Batsari LGAs,” Mu’azu said.
Despite progress in some areas, security operations will continue in Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, and Dandume to flush out remaining threats.
