The chairman of Sabuwa Local Government Area in Katsina State, Hon. Faruk Ayatu, has confirmed the release of at least 1,000 individuals who had been kidnapped by bandits.
Speaking to journalists in Funtua on Monday, Ayatu explained that Sabuwa is one of the hardest-hit areas in the state, largely due to its proximity to bandit-infested forests along the borders of Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, and Kebbi states.
While he acknowledged a reduction in attacks due to the state government’s intensified efforts, Ayatu raised concerns about a recent uptick in violence. He attributed the surge to negotiations between bandits and authorities in neighbouring Kaduna State.
“The bandits are now pressuring us to accept negotiations on their terms, threatening further severe attacks if we refuse,” Ayatu said.
The council chairman reiterated the local government’s firm stance against negotiating with criminals, describing such deals as deceptive. “Even if a deal is struck, they will not relinquish their weapons,” he warned.
Ayatu also suggested that bandits harbor resentment toward the residents of Katsina due to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s refusal to engage in talks with them.
He further revealed that of the 1,000 people freed, some were released after ransom payments, while others were freed voluntarily. However, around 70 individuals remain in captivity.
In his statement, Ayatu emphasized that a sustainable peace agreement could only be achieved if all governors in the North-West region collectively agreed to negotiate with the bandits.
He also expressed gratitude to Governor Radda for his dedication to fulfilling campaign promises, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and water supply.
However, security concerns remain high, with many residents urging for continued military operations to combat the escalating banditry in the region.
