Katsina defends planned release of 70 suspected bandits, says it’s part of peace efforts
The Katsina State Government has defended its decision to facilitate the release of 70 suspected bandits, describing the move as a necessary step in sustaining community-led peace agreements in conflict-affected areas of the state.
Speaking in an interview with DCL Hausa, Nasir Muazu, commissioner for internal security and home affairs, said the initiative forms part of reconciliation efforts involving communities and armed groups that have expressed willingness to lay down their arms.
The comments come amid widespread criticism following the leak of an official document outlining the government’s request for the release of suspects currently in custody. The letter, dated January 2, 2026, and marked “SECRET,” was reportedly sent to the state’s chief judge, seeking the intervention of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC).
According to the document, the request was made under Section 371(2) of the Katsina State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2021. It described the release of the suspects as one of the conditions agreed upon in peace accords reached between armed groups and communities in several frontline local government areas.
The letter indicated that while some of the suspects had been charged before the Federal High Court, others were awaiting trial at magistrate courts. It also noted that an additional list of about 22 inmates facing high court proceedings had been submitted for consideration.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from legal practitioners, civil society groups, and members of the public, who argue that releasing suspects accused of serious crimes could undermine the rule of law, deny justice to victims, and encourage further criminal activity.
Responding to the backlash, Muazu said the peace process has already delivered tangible results, including the release of nearly 1,000 abducted persons across multiple local government areas. He said the releases were achieved through structured negotiations led by affected communities.
The commissioner compared the approach to post-conflict reconciliation efforts and prisoner exchanges, citing examples from Nigeria’s civil war, negotiations with Boko Haram, and international peace-building practices.
While stressing that banditry remains a criminal offence under Nigerian law, Muazu said the government has prioritised restoring stability and securing the release of hostages over prolonged detention.
“After conflicts, negotiations often lead to changes and compromises,” he said. “What we are doing is driven by communities who want peace and the safe return of their people.”
