Heavily armed bandits converged convened at Dugun Muazu village, Sabuwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State on Saturday with State and Local Government Council representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders for peace meetings being conversed under the framework of Operation Safe Corridor.
A similar meeting was also held in Matazu LGA of Katsina State, with representatives of local authorities and bandit leaders towards reaching terms of cessation of hostilities and commitment to peace.
Already, at least seven LGAs in Katsina State have entered into peace deals with bandits as a way of addressing the spate of attacks, killings and abductions in their various communities. The Council areas include Danmusa, Jibia, Batsari, Kankara, Kurfi, Musawa and Faskari.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the meeting at Dugun Muazu village, convened at the instance of the Sabuwa LGA authorities, was part of ongoing peace-building efforts aimed at ending banditry in the area.
In attendance were the Executive Chairman of Sabuwa LGA, Hon. Sagir Tanimu, Member of the State House of Assembly representing Sabuwa, Hon. Ibrahim Danjuma, State Adviser on Health Institutions, Alhaji Umar Manmada, and Yarima Kogo, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello Ibrahim.
On the side of the bandits, those present included Alhaji Kabiru, Maisaje, Kachalla Adamu Risku, Alhaji Idi Mawange, Kachalla Damina, Kachalla Murtala, Kachalla Shua’ibu, Kachalla Dawa and Kachalla Maitantan.
According to local officials, crucial issues relating to peace, reconciliation and cessation of hostilities were discussed. Both parties pledged commitment towards the restoration of peace and stability in the LGA.
The meeting, which lasted for about one and a half hours, ended peacefully at about 2:30 p.m.
Authorities said consultations with community leaders and other stakeholders would continue as part of efforts to consolidate the peace process.
Meanwhile, the meeting with bandits held in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, with representatives of local authorities and bandit leaders pledging commitment to peace.
Zagazola also gathered that the meeting, which took place on Saturday at Yargeza Primary School in Dan-Musa LGA, was convened at the instance of the Chairman of Matazu LGA, Hon. Shamsuddeen Mohammed Sayaya, alongside the District Head, Alhaji Iro Maikano.
On the side of the bandits, Kingpin Muhammadu, Alhaji Sani Yellow, and Ummaru Manore attended through a mediator, Malam Hamisu Saidu Bastari.
Both parties reportedly assured that they would work towards ensuring lasting peace and stability in Matazu and its environs.
The meeting, which lasted for about one hour and 40 minutes, ended peacefully at about 3:40 p.m.
Authorities said further developments on the peace process would be communicated in due course.
Written with reports from Zagazola Makama
