Bandits at a "peace meeting" in Katsina
Stakeholders in two LGAs of Katsina state reportedly reached a truce with leaders of armed groups under the federal government’s Operation Safe Corridor initiative.
Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, reports that separate peace meetings were held on Saturday in Sabuwa and Matazu LGAs, bringing together local authorities, community leaders, and leaders of armed groups.
In Sabuwa, the meeting took place at Dugun Muazu village, with Sagir Tanimu, executive chairman, and Ibrahim Danjuma, the state assembly member representing the constituency, in attendance.
Also present were Umar Manmada, the state adviser on health institutions, and Ibrahim Ibrahim (Yarima Kogo), a community elder.
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On the bandits’ side, attendees included Kabiru, Maisaje, Kachalla Adamu Risku, Idi Mawange, Kachalla Damina, Kachalla Murtala, Kachalla Shua’ibu, Kachalla Dawa, and Kachalla Maitantan.
Makama noted that local officials said issues of reconciliation and cessation of hostilities dominated the discussions.
The publication added that both parties pledged to “remain committed towards peace and stability” in the area.
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The session lasted about an hour and a half, ending peacefully at 2:30pm.
A similar peace meeting was convened the same day in Matazu LGA, at Yargeza primary school in Dan-Musa.
It was led by Shamsuddeen Sayaya, the LGA chairman, alongside Iro Maikano, the district head.
Representing the armed groups were Muhammadu, Sani Yellow and Ummaru Manore, who joined through a mediator, Hamisu Bastari.
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After about one hour and 40 minutes of deliberation, which ended at 3:40pm, both parties gave assurances to work towards ensuring “lasting peace and stability” in Matazu and surrounding communities.
Authorities in both LGAs said wider consultations with stakeholders and community leaders will continue as part of efforts to consolidate the peace process.
Here are some pictures from the meetings.
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