In a surprising turn of events, residents of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State have reached a peace agreement with armed bandits in a bid to end years of violence and insecurity that has plagued the region. The deal, which was struck on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Kwari village, has brought hope to many who have suffered the consequences of frequent attacks, abductions, and economic losses.
As part of the reconciliation, the bandits handed over two AK-47 rifles and confessed to their involvement in the abduction of 10 people from Daddara town. The hostages have now been freed and are receiving medical care at the General Hospital in Jibia.
This breakthrough peace initiative was facilitated by the Jibia People’s Forum, under the leadership of Alhaji Gide Dahiru, who played a central role in bringing both parties to the negotiating table. The talks were also attended by key community leaders, including the Chairman of the Jibia Business Association, Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, and elder statesman Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare.
The meeting was significant not only because it brought together warring factions but also because it was conducted under Islamic law, as explained by Sheikh Barrister Ibrahim Sabi’u. Sabi’u, a former secretary of the Islamic Justice Commission and a judge at the Katsina State Court of Reconciliation, noted that the use of Islamic law ensured that the terms of the agreement would be respected by all parties and would lay the foundation for lasting peace.
In a statement shared by security analyst Zagazola Makama on social media, it was revealed that notorious bandit leaders, Audu Lankai and Tukur Nigerian, were among those involved in the peace talks. Their participation indicates a potential shift in the way the region has handled security challenges in the past, offering a glimmer of hope to both local communities and the state government.
According to the report, the bandits who attended the talks also committed to certain conditions laid out by the residents. These conditions included an immediate cessation of attacks on Jibia town and its surrounding communities, as well as assurances that farmers would be protected and that cattle rustling would come to an end.
As part of the peace deal, the armed bandits have pledged to respect government laws and cease all criminal activities, including cattle rustling. This agreement represents a significant step forward, as cattle rustling has been a major issue in the region, with local farmers often being targeted by bandits seeking to steal livestock.
One of the key conditions put forward by the residents was the demand for an immediate halt to the violence that has plagued the area. For years, residents of Jibia Local Government have lived in fear of attacks by armed bandits, which have disrupted daily life, created economic hardship, and led to the loss of lives and property. The peace agreement seeks to put an end to this cycle of violence and provide the community with an opportunity to rebuild.
Zagazola Makama, who has closely followed the developments in the Lake Chad region, expressed cautious optimism about the deal. He noted that while peace agreements with armed groups are often fragile, the fact that both sides have committed to a ceasefire and have outlined clear terms could signal a shift towards stability in Katsina State.
The involvement of community leaders was crucial in securing the peace deal. Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, Chairman of the Jibia Business Association, was among the key figures who helped broker the talks. His leadership within the local business community has made him a trusted figure in the region, and his participation in the peace process lent credibility to the negotiations.
Elder statesman Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare also played a pivotal role in the discussions. Zare, known for his wisdom and deep understanding of the region’s socio-political dynamics, was instrumental in bridging the gap between the residents and the bandits. His presence provided reassurance to the community that their concerns would be heard and addressed.
In a heartening development, Alhaji Babangida Bracket, a resident of Daddara, confirmed the release of the 10 abducted victims. These individuals were taken by the bandits during a raid on Daddara town, and their release marks a potential turning point in the region’s efforts to restore security.
Alhaji Bracket expressed his relief and gratitude. “The return of our people is a significant moment for us. We are hopeful that this peace agreement will lead to more releases and help bring an end to the suffering that many families have endured,” he said.
The victims are currently receiving medical attention at the General Hospital in Jibia, and their families are anxiously awaiting their recovery. The community’s hope is that this development will pave the way for other abducted individuals to be freed in the near future.
