Another local government area in Katsina State has sealed a deal with bandits, prompting a reaction from the state government.
In a bid to restore calm and peace in their areas, authorities in Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa LGAs took the lead in negotiating a peace deal with armed bandits.
The latest entrant into such arrangements in which affected communities are allowed to cultivate their farms in relative peace, while bandits enjoyed freedom of movement to markets, hospitals, and shops in towns and villages for daily business transactions is Safana LGA.
It has sparked reactions from the state government via the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu.
Mu’azu distanced the state government from the phenomenon in an interview with newsmen saying: “We all know that Governor Dikko Umar Radda made security his top priority, and he has demonstrated his resolve to address insecurity.
“For over two years, we have been confronting the bandits, and by Allah’s mercy, we are achieving success.
“The government will not negotiate with bandits, but if they choose to drop their arms and come forward, we will give them the opportunity to live as normal citizens.
“The government will not negotiate with bandits, but if they choose to drop their arms and come forward, we will give them the opportunity to live as normal citizens”
He also said, “We are fortunate that bandits in Jibia and Batsari LGAs have approached their community leaders to start discussions.
“We are fortunate that bandits in Jibia and Batsari LGAs have approached their community leaders to start discussions.
“Thankfully, these talks have been robust, and we are now witnessing very peaceful activities in both areas. However, in LGAs still under attack, security operations will continue.”
