No fewer than 1,000 kidnapped victims have been released by their abductors in Sabuwa local government area of Katsina State, the chairman of the LG, Hon. Faruk Ayatu has disclosed.
Ayatu told journalists in Funtua on Monday that Sabuwa LG is one of the worst-hit areas in the state due to its proximity to bandit-infested forests bordering Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, and Kebbi states.
While acknowledging a decline in attacks due to the intensified efforts of the state government, Ayatu expressed concern over the recent surge in violence, linking it to negotiations between bandits and authorities in neighbouring Kaduna State.
“The bandits are now threatening us to embrace negotiations on their terms, or we will continue to suffer severe attacks,” he said.
He reaffirmed the council’s stance against negotiating with criminals, arguing that such agreements often serve as mere deception. “They will not surrender all their arms if a deal is reached,” he maintained.
Ayatu also claimed that bandits harbour resentment toward Katsina residents over the refusal of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to negotiate with them.
He revealed that, “While 1,000 people had been released, some through ransom payments and others freely. Around 70 individuals remained in captivity.
“Lasting and sustainable peace deal can only be attained if all North-West states governors collectively agreed to negotiate with the bandits.”
The council chairman thanked Governor Radda for his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, and water supply.
Despite these efforts, concerns persist over the region’s security situation, with residents calling for sustained military operations to curb bandit activities.
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