KATSINA, NIGERIA — Fresh concerns have emerged over the Nigerian government’s control of security following a controversial peace meeting in Katsina State where armed bandits appeared openly with guns, interacted with authorities, and left unchallenged.
The meeting, held in Danmusa Local Government Area, brought together traditional rulers, community leaders and security officials. However, the event took a troubling turn when notorious bandit leaders arrived on motorcycles, firing shots into the air as they joined the gathering.
Among them was the wanted bandit commander Ado Aleru, known across the Northwest for leading deadly raids. Despite his presence and visible firearms, no attempt was made by authorities to arrest him or any member of his group.
Witnesses reported that the bandits tabled a series of demands, including the release of their detained allies, before departing the venue freely and without resistance.
Government Denial Contradicts Situation on Ground
While the incident has sparked outrage nationwide, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda has repeatedly insisted that his administration does not negotiate with criminals. The governor described the meetings as “community-led peace engagements,” distancing the state from direct negotiations.
However, the involvement of security agencies and state officials at the scene contradicts these claims, deepening public doubts about the government’s ability to enforce law and order in the region.
Critics say the government’s stance appears to be more of a public relations effort than a reflection of actual policy.
Bandits Appear Emboldened, Accuse Government of Complicity
In a startling twist, one of the bandit representatives at a previous meeting accused government officials of initially encouraging bandit operations. He said: “It was the government that wanted us to engage in banditry. They have the power to end it, but they don’t want it to end.”
Security analysts have described the statement as both alarming and revealing, suggesting the bandits feel no fear of state authority.
Security Intelligence Undermined by Informants
Adding to the crisis, Katsina State’s Commissioner for Internal Security disclosed recently that up to 80 percent of bandit attacks in the state are aided by local informants. Analysts say this further weakens security operations, leaving communities exposed and emboldening criminal networks.
The reliance of bandits on insider support has raised concerns about infiltration, sabotage and the fragility of security institutions in the affected areas.
Communities Still Under Siege Despite Truce Deals
Despite several peace accords signed across local government areas, stakeholders report that attacks have continued in many communities, with kidnappings, village raids and killings persisting.
Humanitarian groups estimate that more than half of Katsina’s 34 local government areas remain under bandit influence or threat — a sign that the peace deals may be failing to produce meaningful results.
A Symbol of a Weakening State
The Katsina meeting has become a symbol of what many now fear: a government gradually losing its grip on national security. The sight of wanted criminals attending official meetings openly armed — without arrest or resistance — has raised questions about the nation’s sovereignty in some regions.
Security experts warn that legitimizing violent groups through negotiation without enforcement could set a dangerous precedent, emboldening similar actors across the country.
The Road Ahead
To restore public confidence and reassert government authority, stakeholders are calling for:
Firm disarmament and prosecution of violent actors
Stronger intelligence networks to dismantle informant systems
Community cooperation without empowering criminal groups
Transparent and accountable security strategies
A unified national policy instead of fragmented local arrangements
Until then, the Katsina incident will remain a stark reminder of the growing crisis in Nigeria’s security architecture and the urgent need for decisive action.
Osinloye Ayobamidele Adejuwon is a visionary thinker, writer, and advocate for national transformation. Known for his fearless voice and deep commitment to justice, he speaks for the common people and stands firmly for a Nigeria built on integrity, innovation, and hope.
Through his words and actions, Osinloye inspires others to believe that true leadership begins with service and conviction. His passion for good governance and youth empowerment continues to position him as one of the emerging voices shaping Nigeria’s political and moral rebirth.
Osinloye Ayobamidele Adejuwon is a visionary thinker, writer, and advocate for national transformation. Known for his fearless voice and deep commitment to justice, he speaks for the common people and stands firmly for a Nigeria built on integrity, innovation, and hope.
Through his words and actions, Osinloye inspires others to believe that true leadership begins with service and conviction. His passion for good governance and youth empowerment continues to position him as one of the emerging voices shaping Nigeria’s political and moral rebirth.
