The Katsina State Government has distanced itself from ongoing peace negotiations reportedly taking place between bandits and community leaders in some parts of the state.
Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, reiterated that Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration remains committed to a firm stance against negotiating with criminal elements. He emphasized that security remains the topmost priority of the current government.
“Governor Radda has made it abundantly clear that security is his administration’s primary focus. Since assuming office, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity across the state,” Mu’azu stated.
The commissioner further explained that the state’s security framework is divided into three operational categories, with heightened attention given to frontline local government areas. These include Jibia, Batsari, Safana, DanMusa, Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and several others that have faced persistent attacks from bandits over the past two years.
“Through sustained operations, we’ve been able to record notable successes in those areas. By the grace of God, the situation is gradually improving. However, the government’s position remains unchanged—we are not engaged in any negotiations with bandits,” he clarified.
Mu’azu acknowledged, however, that some bandits in areas such as Jibia, Batsari, and more recently, DanMusa, have independently reached out to local community leaders through intermediaries to initiate dialogue. He emphasized that while these talks have led to relative calm in those communities, they were not government-sponsored.
“Some groups have sent emissaries to their respective communities, expressing willingness to embrace peace. These community-level discussions have so far produced encouraging results in terms of reduced violence and restored calm,” he said.
Nonetheless, Mu’azu stressed that the government is only open to reintegration for those who willingly surrender their arms. “If these individuals choose to drop their weapons and turn away from violence, we will support their reintegration as responsible citizens of Katsina State. But this does not mean we are negotiating with them.”
“Should any of them break their promises or return to crime, the government will deal with them decisively, just as it has done in the past. Our resolve on this issue is absolute,” he warned.
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