In a bid to curb years of violence and insecurity, residents of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State have reached a peace agreement with armed bandits, leading to the release of 10 abducted persons and the surrender of two AK-47 rifles.
The reconciliation meeting, held on February 28, 2025, in Kwari village, was spearheaded by the Jibia People’s Forum, led by Alhaji Gide Dahiru. According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who disclosed the development on Monday, the peace talks were attended by key community figures, including the Chairman of the Jibia Business Association, Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, and elder statesman Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare.
Sheikh Barrister Ibrahim Sabi’u, a former secretary of the Islamic Justice Commission and a judge at the Katsina State Court of Reconciliation, stated that the negotiations were conducted under Islamic law to ensure lasting peace.
Notorious bandit leaders, including Audu Lankai and Tukur Nigerian, participated in the peace process, with residents demanding an immediate end to attacks, protection for farmers, and an end to cattle rustling. In return, the bandits pledged to uphold government laws and cease criminal activities.
