Katsina community signs peace agreement with bandits

Leaders from Kurfi local government area in Katsina State have reached a landmark peace agreement with the bandits who have long terrorised the area.

The initiative aims to bring an end to years of bloodshed, cattle rustling, and kidnappings that have plagued the community.

Sources report that the historic reconciliation took place on Thursday in Wurma Forest, one of the area’s major insecurity hotspots. The effort was led by the Maradin Katsina and District Head of Kurfi, Alhaji Mansur Amadu Kurfi, in collaboration with the local government chairman, Hon. Babangida Abdullahi Kurfi.

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)