In a renewed move to restore peace and security in troubled areas of Katsina State, 5 local government councils – Malumfashi, Bakori, Funtua, Ƙanƙara, and Ƙafur – have entered into a peace agreement with bandits operating within their territories.
The peace meeting, which took place yesterday, in Kakumi town, Bakori local government area, brought together traditional leaders, security representatives, community heads, and key officials from the affected councils. The dialogue was aimed at halting recurring attacks, kidnappings, and cattle-rustling which have disrupted the livelihoods of residents for years.
According to local sources, the meeting was part of broader community-led peace efforts supported by concerned stakeholders who believe dialogue remains a viable path to stabilizing the region. It was learned that the representatives of the bandits attended the meeting under a truce agreement and expressed willingness to cease hostilities, provided their grievances – such as alleged neglect, poverty, and lack of inclusion – are addressed.
During the meeting, leaders of the five local governments pledged to support peace-building efforts through youth engagement, rehabilitation initiatives, and improved local security coordination. They emphasized the need for all parties to uphold their commitments to ensure lasting peace.
Community leaders at the event described the initiative as “a bold and necessary step” to end violence in southern Katsina. They urged both the Government and the armed groups to honor the agreement, stressing that the people have suffered enough from banditry, displacement, and insecurity.
Although details of the agreement were not made public, insiders revealed that part of the understanding includes a temporary cessation of hostilities, free movement of farmers, and assurances against reprisal attacks.
The peace accord comes amid continued efforts by security agencies and state authorities to explore both military and non-military approaches in tackling insecurity across the North-West region.
Observers, however, cautioned that while dialogue is a positive step, it must be backed by effective monitoring and sustainable development measures to prevent a relapse into violence.
