In Katsina Peace Talks, Bandits Demand Schools, Roads, and Ranch as Condition for Ceasefire
In a controversial move that has sparked national debate, community leaders in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State have entered into peace negotiations with a bandit leader known as Mallam Asiya and his faction. The talks, aimed at ending the relentless attacks on the area, took an unexpected turn as the bandits presented a list of demands that included community development projects.
The armed group, responsible for widespread violence, killings, kidnappings, and economic disruption, reportedly demanded the construction of schools, good roads, and a cattle ranch in their enclave as conditions for laying down their arms. Following the meeting, some local participants expressed cautious optimism, hoping for a return of relative peace to the terrorized community.
Government Distances Itself from Negotiations
The Katsina State government has been quick to clarify its role in the process. In statements to the press, officials stated they were not directly involved in the negotiation. Instead, they characterized the talks as a community-led initiative, driven by local elders and residents who are desperate for respite from the constant attacks. The government’s position is that it merely provided a framework for such dialogues to occur, acknowledging the local communities’ right to explore all avenues for peace.
The news of the negotiations has been met with fierce criticism from a large segment of the Nigerian public. Many citizens and security analysts argue that negotiating with criminals sets a dangerous precedent and rewards violence. A common sentiment on social media is that any “peace talk” with bandits is not only futile but could ultimately lead to more killings, as it emboldens the groups and provides them with legitimacy and time to rearm.
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Critics have also seized the opportunity to accuse President Bola Tinubu’s administration of weakness, suggesting that the federal government’s perceived inability to secure lives and property is forcing communities into untenable deals with their tormentors. The concept of rehabilitating and reintegrating bandits has been particularly contentious.
Skepticism is deeply rooted in a history of similar initiatives failing spectacularly across northern Nigeria. There have been numerous cases where so-called “repentant bandits” accepted government amnesty and benefits, only to return to their old ways, often with heightened brutality. Furthermore, security reports have often alleged that these repentant individuals sometimes act as spies and informants for their active counterparts, providing intelligence that leads to more effective and deadly attacks on communities.
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The situation in Faskari LGA remains tense. While the community holds onto hope for peace, the nation watches with skepticism, waiting to see whether this dialogue will break the cycle of violence or become another footnote in a long history of failed negotiations with criminal elements.
