Anxiety in Katsina as 20 LGAs enter peace deal with bandits despite fresh attacks

No fewer than 20 out of the 34 local government areas in Katsina State have reportedly entered into a peace agreement with armed bandits, even as residents continue to express doubt over the sincerity and durability of the deal following renewed attacks in some of the affected communities.

The agreement was reached during a meeting attended by council chairmen and traditional rulers from the participating LGAs.

Bandits reportedly arrived at the venue on motorcycles, fired gunshots into the air as a show of force, and departed less than an hour later.

Journalists were prevented from recording or filming the meeting due to security concerns.

Details of the truce, as gathered from media reports, indicate that the bandits demanded the release of their colleagues currently held in detention across Katsina State.

In exchange, they pledged to free all kidnapped victims in their custody.

Local government leaders reportedly agreed to work with security agencies and correctional authorities to process the release.

Despite the pact, uncertainty remains widespread, as some communities under the agreement have continued to experience bandit attacks.

A resident who spoke anonymously said his only wish is for the situation to improve.

“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.

Another resident urged continuous dialogue to prevent the fragile arrangement from collapsing.

“I expect constant consultation with the bandits to prevent breaches.

There should be strong committees meeting regularly to consolidate the gains of the peace deal and make reviews where necessary,” he said.

A third resident expressed cautious optimism, noting that the truce could offer temporary relief to rural dwellers facing economic hardship.

“With this peace pact, our communities may have some relief, enough to harvest farm produce and face life. People in the southern and eastern parts of Katsina have suffered heavy economic losses,” he said.

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