Safana Local Government Area in Katsina State has entered a peace deal with armed bandits, joining Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa in similar agreements aimed at restoring calm.
The meeting took place at the edge of Gemi Forest in Runka town, with local leaders, community members, and bandit representatives in attendance. Both sides pledged to end hostilities, allow farmers and herders free movement, and give residents access to markets, schools, and hospitals without harassment.
Speaking at the event, Yariman Katsina and head of Safana, Alhaji Sada Rufa’i, urged the bandits to fear God and keep their promises. Bandit leader Kachalla Ruga Usman called for peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and other residents.
The 20-point agreement includes a ban on attacks, kidnappings, and killings, while residents must not harass Fulani herders. The Safana LGA chairman, Abdullahi Sani Safana, promised to repair facilities serving herders and improve access to water.
The Katsina State Government insists it does not negotiate with bandits, saying such peace deals are community-led and often follow sustained military pressure. Commissioner for Internal Security, Nasir Mu’azu, warned that any breach of the truce would be met with decisive action.
