The Katsina State Government has denied involvement in any peace negotiations with bandits, following reports of a meeting in Batsari Local Government Area.
Dr. Bala Salisu, Commissioner for Information and Culture, clarified that while the government is open to accepting bandits who voluntarily surrender and renounce violence, it does not engage in direct negotiations with them.
“We were not part of any peace deal,” Dr. Salisu said. “Anyone who surrenders and renounces violence will be considered, but we do not negotiate with bandits.”
Reports indicate that during a meeting in Kofa village, notorious bandit leaders surrendered weapons and freed captives, claiming it marked the start of a peace process. Military sources attributed the development to sustained operations that left the bandits with no choice but to seek peace.
