Katsina community strike landmark agreement with bandits

In what is being described as a breakthrough in the fight against insecurity, leaders from Kurfi Local Government Area of Katsina State have entered into a peace agreement with bandits who have for years terrorized the region.

The initiative, which seeks to put an end to persistent bloodshed, cattle rustling, and kidnappings, marks a turning point for communities that have lived under the shadow of violence and fear.

According to sources, the historic reconciliation was sealed on Thursday in Wurma Forest, one of the most notorious hotspots of bandit activity in the area. The peace effort was spearheaded by the Maradin Katsina and District Head of Kurfi, Alhaji Mansur Amadu Kurfi, working hand-in-hand with the Kurfi Local Government Chairman, Hon. Babangida Abdullahi Kurfi.

Community members have welcomed the move with cautious optimism, hoping that the agreement will pave the way for lasting stability and the revival of economic activities especially farming and cattle rearing, which have suffered greatly due to insecurity.

Speaking during the peace talks, District Head Amadu Kurfi called the moment a milestone for Kurfi residents.“This is a step for the progress of our community. We have chosen peace, and we will protect this trust for the sake of our people,” he said.

He also encouraged the bandit leaders to appoint traditional heads among themselves to promote accountability.

Key bandit leaders, including Alhaji Usman Kachalla Ruga, Sani Muhindinge, Yahaya Sani a.k.a. Hayyu, and Alhaji Shu’aibu, pledged unanimously to halt killings, abductions, and cattle rustling. They assured that farmers could now return to their lands without fear.

“From today, we drop our weapons of violence. We want peace, and we will release the people in our custody,” they declared.

Hon. Abdullahi expressed his delight at the accord, describing it as the start of a new chapter for Kurfi.“This is the end of insecurity in our communities. We will fulfill our promises, from rehabilitating schools and hospitals to ensuring your detained members are fairly treated,” he said.

He added that Fulani herders are now free to move and conduct business across Kurfi without harassment.

The meeting, attended by traditional rulers, community elders, and residents from the most affected villages, concluded with renewed hope that lasting peace would finally return to Kurfi after years of fear and violence.

Kurfi LGA becomes the fifth council in Katsina State to successfully negotiate with bandits, joining Jibia, Batsari, Safana, and Danmusa LGAs.

(LEADERSHIP)