The Katsina State Government has issued a stern warning to bandits who have recently surrendered, cautioning them to uphold their end of the peace agreements or face renewed military action.
Nasir Mu’azu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, delivered the warning on Monday during a press briefing about the latest developments in the state’s security efforts.
“Let me also make it clear that in case they renege on their promises, we are going to deal with them as we used to. That is the position of the government,” Mu’azu said.
He revealed that several bandit leaders from Jibia, Batsari, and DanMusa Local Government Areas have disarmed and agreed to peaceful coexistence.
According to the commissioner, these areas have seen a marked improvement in security since the agreements took effect.
“Governor Dikko Radda made it clear that security is his top priority. He has shown this through action. We will not negotiate with bandits, but if they surrender, we’ll give them a chance to live like normal citizens,” Mu’azu added.
Despite these developments, the commissioner stressed that military operations would continue in volatile zones such as Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana, unless the armed groups in those areas also agree to disarm and embrace peace.
“The government will continue to carry out military operations in troubled areas like Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana unless the bandits there also surrender. If they keep attacking, we will respond accordingly,” he stated.
Just last Saturday, ten notorious bandit leaders in DanMusa reportedly turned in their weapons, including several AK-47 rifles and a PKT machine gun.
They also released kidnapped victims, including a woman who is seven months pregnant.
While acknowledging the breakthrough as a positive step, Mu’azu emphasized that the state would not condone any betrayal of the terms.
“If they break their promises, we’ll return to treating them the way we used to,” he warned.
