The Katsina State Government has issued a stern warning to bandits who have voluntarily surrendered, urging them to adhere strictly to the terms of the peace accord — or face the full weight of the law.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, made this known during a media briefing on Monday.
“Let me make it clear: if they renege on their promises, we’ll deal with them just as we used to. That’s the government’s position,” he said.
According to Mu’azu, several bandit leaders from Jibia, Batsari, and DanMusa LGAs have surrendered, resulting in improved security in the state.
“Governor Dikko Radda has prioritised security and demonstrated that through action. We won’t negotiate with bandits, but if they lay down their arms, we’ll welcome them to live peacefully,” he noted.
Military operations will continue in hotspots such as Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana — unless those in hiding also surrender, he said.
On Saturday, ten bandit leaders in DanMusa surrendered, handing over AK-47 rifles, a PKT gun, and releasing kidnapped victims, including a 7-month pregnant woman.
Mu’azu concluded with a warning:
“If they break their promises, we’ll revert to treating them as the threats they are.”