37 Hostages Regain Freedom in Katsina Through Peace Accord
In a significant development for security in Northern Nigeria, 37 individuals kidnapped by bandits in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State have been successfully released from captivity. The victims, who had been held by their abductors for an unspecified period, are now free and reunited with their families.
Lawmaker Confirms Release Without Ransom Payment
The breakthrough was officially confirmed by Abdulrahman Kandarawa, the lawmaker representing Bakori constituency at the Katsina State House of Assembly. Speaking to journalists in Katsina on Friday, November 28, 2025, Kandarawa revealed that the release followed successful peace negotiations between community representatives and the bandits operating in the area.
According to the legislator, the victims were released without any ransom payment, marking a crucial aspect of the agreement reached during the dialogue process. This development represents a notable achievement in the ongoing efforts to address security challenges in the region through non-violent means.
Composition of Freed Victims and Current Security Status
The freed individuals comprise a diverse group that includes 17 women, 2 children, and 18 men, all of whom were abducted from various locations within Bakori Local Government Area. Their release signifies a major victory for community-led conflict resolution initiatives in the troubled region.
Kandarawa made a significant declaration regarding the current security situation, stating that no kidnapped victims from Bakori remain with the kidnappers, unless there are cases unknown to authorities. He emphasized, "I want to assure you that, at the moment, there are no more victims in the forest from this local government area."
The lawmaker concluded with an appeal to local residents, urging them to maintain the relative peace currently being experienced in the communities. This successful negotiation sets a positive precedent for resolving similar security challenges through dialogue rather than confrontation in other affected areas of Northern Nigeria.
