UPDATE: Residents Reach Peace Accord With Armed Bandits

Residents of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State have reached a peace agreement with armed bandits operating in the region, in a bid to restore stability and end years of violence.

The reconciliation meeting, held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Kwari village, was facilitated by the Jibia People’s Forum, under the leadership of Alhaji Gide Dahiru. The event was attended by community leaders, including the chairman of the Jibia Business Association, Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, and prominent elder Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare.

A former secretary of the Islamic Justice Commission and judge at the Katsina State Court of Reconciliation, Sheikh Barrister Ibrahim Sabi’u, underscored the importance of addressing the security crisis through dialogue.

“It was the bandits who requested reconciliation with the residents. We agreed to negotiate peace based on Islamic law, with the hope of bringing lasting stability to our people,” he stated.

According to Hikaya Newspaper, notorious bandit leaders Audu Lankai and Tukur Nigerian are among those engaged in the peace process. The meeting, which included representatives of the Nigerian Army, focused on establishing terms and conditions to ensure the success of the accord.

ALSO READ: Omo-Agege Laments Infrastructural Neglect Of Burutu, Bomadi LGAs By PDP-Led Government

As part of the agreement, residents of Jibia LGA outlined key conditions, including an immediate cessation of attacks on Jibia town and its surrounding communities, as well as a commitment to protecting farmers and their farmlands. The bandits, in turn, pledged to respect government laws and end cattle rustling and other criminal activities.

During the meeting, the bandits reportedly handed over two AK-47 rifles and confirmed their involvement in the recent abduction of ten people from Daddara town. The freed victims have since been taken to the General Hospital in Jibia for medical attention.

A resident of Daddara, Alhaji Babangida Bracket, confirmed the release of the kidnapped victims after several days in captivity.