The Katsina State Government has explained its controversial decision to release 70 suspected bandits from custody, stating the move is a necessary step to sustain a fragile peace agreement with armed groups in the state.
Peace Deal Justifies Release, Says Commissioner
Following public outcry over a leaked government letter, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, defended the administration's action. He clarified that the planned release is aimed at consolidating peace pacts reached between affected communities and repentant bandits.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda's administration views this as a critical measure to maintain the ongoing dialogue. Muazu argued that the peace initiative has already yielded significant results, leading to the freedom of about 1,000 individuals previously abducted by bandits. These releases have occurred across 15 local government areas in Katsina.
Drawing Parallels with Wartime Exchanges
In his justification, Commissioner Muazu drew a direct comparison to internationally accepted practices during conflicts. "All over the world, after wars, prisoner exchanges usually take place," he stated. He cited examples from Nigeria's civil war and more recent negotiations involving Boko Haram insurgents as precedents for such actions.
Muazu further emphasized that the processes followed by the State Ministry of Justice and the courts did not violate any laws. He maintained that the government operated within legal frameworks and invited anyone dissatisfied with the process to seek redress through the judicial system.
Recent Attacks Cast Shadow on Accord
This explanation comes amidst renewed violence that tests the credibility of the peace deal. In a recent tragic incident, armed bandits stormed Doguwar Dorawa village in Bakori Local Government Area, brutally killing two respected elders.
Similar attacks have been reported in communities like Layin ‘Yannehu, Ganjar, and Gidan Nagari in recent weeks, heightening public fear and skepticism about the agreement's effectiveness.
Governor Radda has previously revealed that over 90 percent of the bandits operating in Katsina are locals, not outsiders. These individuals are often known within their communities and have identifiable family roots in the region. To address this internal crisis, the state government has established a local security outfit composed of youths from affected areas to bolster intelligence and ground operations.
The debate continues as the state government balances the imperative of securing lasting peace with the urgent need for justice and security for terrorized communities.
