Tension across Katsina State is beginning to ease after a landmark peace agreement was reached between notorious bandit groups and community leaders from several local government areas under the Federal Government’s Operation Safe Corridor initiative.
According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the truce was finalized on October 12, 2025, during a critical dialogue session held at Kakumi Village in Bakori Local Government Area. The peace talks brought together representatives from Bakori, Kafur, Malumfashi, Kankara, and Funtua LGAs, alongside prominent bandit leaders operating within the Funtua zone.
The dialogue—which lasted over three hours—was described as peaceful and constructive, with discussions centered on ending years of deadly attacks, kidnappings, and community displacements that have ravaged southern Katsina. Both sides reportedly agreed to an immediate cessation of hostilities and a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Among the community delegates were respected figures such as Abdurrahman Kandarawa of Bakori, Abubakar Musa Barde of Kafur, and Bature Dan Kanjiba of Malumfashi, while traditional rulers including the Galadiman Katsina, Abdullahi Mahuta, and the District Head of Bakori, Ado Bello, also participated.
Representing the bandits were key figures like Ado Aleru of Yankuzo in Zamfara, Isiya Kwashen Garwa of Bakori, Babaro of Gidan Gamji, and Iliya Zango Dan Sabau from Kankara. The meeting concluded with a joint resolution to restore law and order and support the government’s reconciliation framework.
Observers view the latest truce as a significant stride toward peace in Katsina, where violence and displacement have persisted for years. Residents, however, remain cautiously optimistic, hoping the new accord will translate into lasting stability and safety for the region.
