Security experts and residents have raised alarm over a controversial decision by the Katsina State Government to release at least 70 suspected bandits as part of an ongoing peace agreement with armed groups operating in the state.
The proposed release has sparked widespread criticism, with analysts warning that it could further destabilise the already fragile security situation in Kano State, where bandit attacks have intensified in recent months.
According to security sources, armed groups frequently cross from border communities in Katsina into Kano’s Tsanyawa, Shanono, and Gwarzo Local Government Areas, carrying out attacks before retreating back across state lines.
The controversy followed the emergence of an official letter dated January 2, written by the Katsina State Government to the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Musa Abubakar. The letter, signed by the Director of Public Prosecution, Abdurahman Umar, requested the immediate release of the 70 suspects, describing the action as part of conditions set by bandits to sustain a peace deal with the government.
Reacting to the development, security analyst Dr. Bashir Kurfi described the plan as a dangerous gamble that could worsen insecurity across the North-West region.
“This is not a small risk; it is a flawed strategy,” Kurfi said during an interview with Trust TV. “Negotiating peace with people accused of rape, murder, and destruction—without consulting affected communities or ensuring they surrender their weapons—is unacceptable.”
He warned that releasing the suspects could trigger renewed and more coordinated attacks, particularly in Kano communities bordering Katsina.
“Residents along the Katsina-Kano axis should brace themselves. There is a strong likelihood of increased attacks if these individuals regain their freedom,” he cautioned.
Kurfi also alleged that some political actors may be exploiting insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Similarly, a retired military officer and security analyst, Major Muhammad Bashir Galma (rtd), told NEWSMEN that tackling banditry requires a coordinated regional strategy.
“No state can pursue isolated peace deals, release armed criminals, and allow them to find refuge while neighbouring states suffer attacks,” Galma said. “Governors across the North-West must work together if they are serious about ending banditry.”
In Kano State—widely seen as the most vulnerable to potential spillover attacks—public focus has been partly diverted by a political rift between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his political mentor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
However, residents of affected communities say fear remains widespread.
Speaking to NEWSMEN, Ammar Wakili, a youth leader from Shanono Local Government Area, said locals were deeply troubled by reports of the planned release.
“We heard about it and we are extremely worried, but there is little we can do,” he said. “There has been slight improvement recently due to military efforts, but we fear the bandits could regroup and return stronger.”
A displaced resident, Maryama Audu, who fled Shanono to Kano city, said she had considered returning home before learning about the development.
“There was some calm, and I was planning to go back, but this news has changed everything. We are living in constant fear,” she said.
As public outrage grows, residents and stakeholders are calling on northern governors to adopt a collective and decisive approach to combat banditry.
With criticism mounting, attention is now firmly on the Katsina State Government over whether it will proceed with the controversial release or reconsider the decision in the interest of regional security and lasting peace.