Former State Official Alleges Massive Payments to Bandits
A prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Katsina State, Dr. Mustapha Inuwa, has made a shocking allegation. He claims that one local government council in the state has set aside a staggering N300 million in its 2026 fiscal year budget specifically for payments to suspected bandits operating in its area.
Inuwa, who served as Secretary to the State Government under former Governor Aminu Bello Masari, revealed this in a recent interview. He further asserted that several other councils plagued by insecurity also make monthly payments to bandits, running into millions of Naira.
Peace Deals and Ongoing Attacks
The ADC chieftain expressed deep concern over these expenditures. He lamented that despite community-initiated peace agreements with bandits in 18 local government areas of Katsina State, huge sums of public funds continue to be funneled to a few individuals. This, he argued, happens at the direct expense of development projects in the affected councils.
"There is a local government in Katsina State that has earmarked the sum of N300 million for bandits in its 2026 budget," Inuwa stated. "Government also gives money to bandits monthly, and this is despite the so-called peace deal with bandits."
Inuwa cast doubt on the long-term effectiveness of these peace deals, pointing out that attacks still occur daily in various parts of the state. He also questioned the state government's consistency, wondering why it would facilitate the release of dozens of convicted and suspected bandits after repeatedly vowing not to negotiate with such elements.
Governor Commends Military for Restoring Peace
In a related development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has publicly praised the armed forces for their role in combating insecurity. Speaking at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, he commended the military's sacrifice, courage, and dedication in defending Nigeria's territory and protecting its citizens.
Governor Radda described the military as the backbone of the nation's security architecture, especially in frontline states like Katsina that are battling insurgency and banditry. He noted that the state has witnessed firsthand the bravery and professionalism of the armed forces in confronting these security challenges.
According to the Governor, the gradual return of peace to communities previously ravaged by violence is a direct result of sustained military operations and their unwavering commitment to duty. He added that his administration has prioritized collaboration with security agencies through logistics support, intelligence sharing, and community engagement to strengthen ongoing operations.
The contrasting narratives—allegations of large-scale payments to bandits versus official praise for military-led peace restoration—highlight the complex and ongoing security challenges facing Katsina State.
