By Fatima Mukhtar | AbC News
In a major move toward restoring peace in Katsina State, leaders of several local communities and notorious bandit warlords have agreed to lay down their arms after years of bloodshed and insecurity in the region.
The historic peace accord was signed on Saturday, October 12, 2025, in Kakumi Village, Bakori Local Government Area, under the supervision of security agencies and traditional rulers.
Representatives from Bakori, Kafur, Malumfashi, Kankara, and Funtua LGAs participated in the meeting, which lasted over three hours. During the discussions, both parties pledged to cease hostilities and work towards lasting peace and reconciliation.
According to a report by Vanguard Newspaper, the dialogue was held as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing “Operation Safe Corridor” initiative aimed at rehabilitating repentant bandits and reintegrating them into society. The agreement includes commitments to end attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling across affected areas.
Community leaders expressed optimism that the truce would bring relief to residents who have long suffered from violent raids and abductions. Security experts, however, urged the government to ensure full implementation and continuous monitoring to prevent a relapse into conflict.
Katsina State, which has been one of the hardest-hit areas by banditry in the North-West, has witnessed a significant drop in attacks in recent months following renewed security operations and dialogue initiatives.
The peace deal is expected to mark a turning point in the state’s fight against rural banditry, with authorities vowing to provide sustainable livelihood programs for repentant fighters and affected communities.
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