News Editor
Several top commanders of armed bandit groups in Katsina State have voluntarily surrendered following a peace initiative facilitated by a local dialogue team. However, in a surprising twist, some of the commanders insisted on retaining their weapons, citing the need for self-defence against rival factions.
According to Hamisu Sa’idu Batsari, leader of the local group that brokered the discussions, the initiative was sparked by the bandits themselves — a development he described as “a turning point” from previous government-led efforts that failed.
Among those who reportedly laid down arms are prominent figures such as Abu Radda, Maikada, Umar Blak, and Tukur Dannajeriya, each believed to command between 200 to 500 fighters. Other names mentioned include Tukur Mairakumi, with several also controlling sizeable armed followings.
Batsari revealed that during peace talks, some bandit leaders made it clear they would not surrender their weapons entirely due to ongoing threats from non-compliant groups. They also called for an end to arbitrary arrests and killings by security forces, and demanded that any of their members accused of crimes be prosecuted through lawful judicial processes.
In exchange for ending violent activities, the bandits requested equal access to government services such as clean water, education, and healthcare, and emphasized the need for a respectful integration process into civil life.
Confirming the development, Maiwada Danmallam, Director-General of Media and Communication to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, stated:
I can confirm bandit commanders around Batsari have voluntarily surrendered to the military. However, the government’s position remains unchanged, His Excellency’s policy of ‘no negotiation with terrorists’ still stands.
The latest move sparks debate on the balance between peace-building efforts and government’s counterterrorism stance, especially as the region grapples with persistent insecurity.
