The government of Katsina State has issued a stern warning to the bandits who recently laid down their weapons: adhere to the terms of the peace accord or face dire repercussions.
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This was disclosed during Monday’s press conference by Nasir Mu’azu, the commissioner for internal security and home affairs.
He claims the government will punish those who betrayed their word by continuing to support violent extremists.
Please understand that we will continue to handle them in the same manner as before in the event that they back out of their commitments. “That is the government’s position,” Mu’azu declared.
According to him, a number of bandit chiefs from the DanMusa, Jibia, and Batsari LGAs have surrendered their weapons and agreed to the terms of the peace agreement.
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“Relative peace to those areas” was his statement. Mu’azu elaborated by saying that Governor Dikko Radda is taking decisive measures to ensure the safety of the people.
Nevertheless, the official cautioned that areas such as Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana—where attacks still occur—will still be subject to military operations.
“In conflict zones, the government will maintain its military presence…” “We will respond accordingly if they keep attacking,” he warned.
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According to Mu’azu, the government is prepared to help individuals who sincerely decide to stop being violent, but it will take strong action against those who violate the peace agreement. He cautioned that they would be treated similarly in the past if they failed to keep their pledges.
Officials in Katsina have urged the populace to rally behind initiatives aimed at restoring stability to areas hit hard by banditry.
Ten prominent DanMusa bandit leaders recently turned themselves in, freeing hostages including a pregnant woman who was abducted at the age of seven.