Katsina Government Declares: No Talks with Bandits Unless They Surrender

Dr Nasir Mu'azu Danmusa Commissioner for Internal Security and home affairs 

Commissioner Nasiru Danmusa says peace talks only possible if terrorists drop weapons, as community leaders lead grassroots reconciliation

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Mukaifat Ummi Yakubu | Katsina Time
June 16, 2025 | Katsina Government House

The Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its firm stance against negotiating with armed bandits unless they fully surrender and renounce violence. This position was made clear by the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, during a press briefing held at his office near the Katsina Government House on Monday, June 16, 2025.

According to Dr. Danmusa, while the government remains open to reintegrating repentant bandits who voluntarily lay down their arms, it will not enter into any form of negotiation with criminals still engaged in violent activities.

"Under the leadership of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, our position is crystal clear: we will not negotiate with bandits. However, those who truly surrender will be given a chance to reintegrate and live peacefully like other citizens,” he said.

The Commissioner revealed that progress has been recorded in several troubled local government areas such as Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa, where community leaders not political leaders have initiated dialogue with certain bandit groups seeking reconciliation.

“These are not local government chairmen talking to the bandits; it’s the grassroots community elders who understand their environment. In Jibia and Batsari, some bandits have reached out, and we’ve started seeing peace in those areas,” Dr. Danmusa added.

He emphasized that community leaders are better suited for such dialogue since some of the bandits are relatives or former residents of their communities, which eases mutual understanding.

Dr. Danmusa commended the resilience of communities in Kankara, Faskari, Sabwa, Safana, and Dandume, noting their ongoing efforts in supporting the fight against insecurity. He also confirmed that military operations will persist in areas still experiencing bandit attacks.

He clarified that the government has signed no ceasefire deals with any groups, and there are no formal conditions in place because the administration follows a bottom-up approach that prioritizes local voices and inclusive solutions.

“We haven’t imposed anything, nor have we entered any agreements. This government operates based on grassroots consultation and advice from the people themselves,” the Commissioner explained.

Dr. Danmusa further stated that once local communities report sustained peace, the government may consider reducing military operations. However, should the bandits violate any understanding, security operations would resume immediately.

“If they break their promises, the government will take appropriate action,” he warned.

Highlighting progress in reconciliation efforts across affected LGAs, he expressed hope that the grassroots peace initiative would spread to other parts of the state still battling insecurity.

“Some of these bandits are our children or relatives. There is hope for understanding when reconciliation is driven by the communities themselves,” Dr. Danmusa said.

He concluded by echoing Governor Radda’s strong security agenda, stating:

“In this administration, security is priority one, two, and three.”

The Katsina State Government continues to collaborate with traditional leaders, security agencies, and local councils to establish a sustainable, community-driven approach to peace and security.