Kaduna community Holds ‘Peace Meeting’ With Terrorists
Following continued violence perpetrated by terrorists locally dubbed as bandits, residents of Jibia Local Government Area (LGA) in Katsina State have reached a “peace agreement” with armed groups operating in the region in an effort to restore stability and end years of bloodshed.
According to reports, the “reconciliation” meeting took place on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Kwari village and was facilitated by the Jibia People’s Forum, led by Alhaji Gide Dahiru.
The gathering included key community leaders, such as the chairman of the Jibia Business Association, Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, and prominent elder Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare.
During the meeting, the bandits reportedly surrendered two AK-47 rifles and admitted to being behind the recent abduction of 10 people from Daddara town, according to a security source, Zagazola Makama.
A former secretary of the Islamic Justice Commission and judge at the Katsina State Court of Reconciliation, Sheikh Barrister Ibrahim Sabi’u, emphasised the need for dialogue to resolve the security crisis.
“It was the bandits who requested reconciliation with the residents. We agreed to negotiate peace based on Islamic law, with the hope of bringing lasting stability to our people,” he stated.
Representatives of the Nigerian Army were also reportedly present as discussions focused on establishing terms and conditions to ensure the success of the accord.
As part of the agreement, Jibia residents demanded an immediate end to attacks on the town and surrounding communities, along with guarantees for the safety of farmers and their farmlands.
In response, the bandits pledged to cease criminal activities, including cattle rustling, and to abide by government laws.
The kidnapped victims have since been released and taken to the General Hospital in Jibia for medical attention.
A resident of Daddara, Alhaji Babangida Bracket, confirmed the release of the abducted individuals, who had spent several days in captivity.
