In a promising development for Katsina State, fourteen armed bandit groups from Batsari and Jibia local government areas have voluntarily disarmed and pledged to end violence, raising hopes for lasting peace in the region.
Hamisu Sai’id, leader of the Peace For All Organisation, confirmed the move, describing it as the result of extensive dialogue, trust-building, and outreach within affected communities.
“Months of steady engagement have brought us here. These groups are now ready to embrace peace,” Sai’id stated.
Among the groups from Batsari that laid down their arms were those led by known figures such as Abu-Radde, who reportedly commanded over 500 men; Umar Black with around 300 fighters; and Turkur Dan-Nigeria, who led more than 200 armed men. In Jibia, six other groups followed suit, including those led by Langai, Sahabi, and Ori.
Since the agreement was reached, affected communities have experienced over three months of relative calm, a significant improvement compared to the previous state of insecurity marked by abductions and violent raids.
However, not all areas are on board with the peace effort. In Safana LGA, no group has disarmed, and some factions have reportedly attacked those who joined the peace process, even stealing livestock from former bandits who had laid down their weapons.
To address the situation, Sai’id noted that the military has begun working alongside his organisation to initiate talks with some of the active groups in Safana. “We’ve started discussions with a few who appear willing to listen,” he added.
Despite this progress, he said political challenges persist. “The chairman of Safana contacted the military, saying his community isn’t interested in dialogue with the bandits. I believe this opposition is driven by political motives,” Sai’id claimed.
Responding to allegations of mismanaging donor funds, he dismissed the criticism, saying, “We’re not concerned about the accusations. What matters is achieving peace. I don’t carry weapons — I use my experience to bring people together.”
He called on the Katsina State government to show greater commitment in supporting peace initiatives, especially in high-risk areas still facing insecurity.
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