By Abdullahi Inuwa
Commissioner Danmusa says only unarmed outlaws can be reintegrated as community elders drive peace efforts
The Katsina State Government has reiterated its hardline policy against negotiating with armed criminals, stressing that dialogue will only be considered for those who completely disarm and abandon violence.
Speaking at a press briefing near Government House in Katsina on Monday, June 16, 2025, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, made it clear that the administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda will not tolerate any form of appeasement for active bandits.
“Our message is unambiguous—there will be no talks with terrorists unless they fully drop their weapons. We are open to welcoming those who truly repent, but only if they abandon violence for good,” Danmusa declared.
He noted that certain flashpoint areas such as Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa Local Government Areas have begun to witness relative peace thanks to behind-the-scenes reconciliation efforts led by local community elders—not politicians.
“These are grassroots leaders, not elected officials. They know their people and the terrain. In some cases, they even have personal connections with those involved in banditry,” the Commissioner said.
According to him, such community-led interventions have proven more effective in building trust and opening the door for peaceful reintegration, especially in locations where mutual understanding already exists.
Danmusa praised the courage and vigilance of communities in places like Kankara, Faskari, Sabwa, Safana, and Dandume, acknowledging their cooperation with security forces. He added that military operations would continue in troubled zones until calm is fully restored.
He firmly denied any claims of ceasefire agreements or formal negotiations with criminal groups, emphasizing the administration’s bottom-up strategy focused on listening to the concerns and solutions of the people at the grassroots.
“We haven’t signed any agreements. There are no backroom deals. What we’re doing is guided by feedback from the people directly affected by insecurity,” he clarified.
The Commissioner stressed that the government remains committed to using force if any act of betrayal is detected from the bandits who initiate peace overtures.
“If they go back on their word, we will act swiftly and decisively,” he warned.
He also expressed optimism that the localized peace approach, which has already started showing results, would eventually expand to other parts of the state that are still plagued by insecurity.
“These individuals are not strangers—they’re our kin, our neighbors. That makes reconciliation possible when it’s driven from within the community,” Danmusa remarked.
Reaffirming Governor Radda’s unwavering dedication to security, Danmusa concluded:
“In our government, security comes first, second, and third—it’s our utmost priority.”
Katsina State continues to work closely with traditional institutions, security agencies, and local stakeholders to build a durable and inclusive peace rooted in community participation and trust.
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