Katsina Govt Shuts Down Peace Talks Rumors, Confirms Bandits’ Voluntary Surrenders

The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu, clarified in a telephone interview with Daily Trust that the government remains firm on its policy of not negotiating with criminals. However, it is open to reintegrating those who voluntarily surrender and renounce violence.

“Our stance is clear: anyone who renounces violence and surrenders their weapons will be considered. But the government will not initiate negotiations with any bandit,” Salisu stated.

Despite this position, reports suggest a peace meeting took place on Sunday in Kofa village, west of Batsari town, involving military officials, DSS representatives, traditional leaders, and local residents.

According to a resident who attended the meeting, “The bandits requested safe access to our communities and pledged to cease attacks. They surrendered weapons and released captives, claiming this marked the beginning of a broader peace process.”

Among the bandit leaders who reportedly surrendered were Lamu Saudo, Abdulhamid Dan Da, Umar Black, and Abu Radda. As part of their commitment to peace, they handed over weapons and freed kidnapped victims.

Lt. Lawal, the Public Relations Officer of the 17 Brigade Army, confirmed the development and credited sustained military operations for pressuring the bandits into surrendering.

“The continuous pressure from our forces left the bandits with no option but to comply,” Lt. Lawal explained.