No fewer than 20 out of the 34 local government areas in Katsina State have reportedly entered into a peace accord with terrorists following fresh attacks in some of the affected communities.
The deal, struck at a conference attended by council chairmen and traditional rulers from the participating LGAs, saw the terrorists arrive on motorbikes, fire gunshots into the air, and then flee less than an hour later.
Journalists were prohibited from taping the proceedings for security reasons.
According to media reports on the truce, the bandits sought the freedom of their colleagues who are currently detained throughout the state, while offering in exchange to release all detainees in their control.
According to reports, local authorities have agreed to facilitate the procedure through security agencies and detention facilities.
Despite the pact, fear and anxiety remain rampant, since several areas included by the peace deal have continued to be attacked.
A resident who spoke on the condition of anonymity said all he wanted was for the security situation to be stabilized.
“My only hope is for us to regain our freedom from these bandits. Let there be peace. Hundreds have lost their lives. Survivors have lost their livelihoods. Let us start a new life,” he said.
Another resident called for sustained engagement to prevent any breakdown of the fragile agreement.
“I expect constant consultation with the bandits to prevent breaches. There should be strong committees meeting regularly to consolidate on the gains of the peace deal and make reviews where necessary,” he said.
A third person offered cautious optimism, saying the truce could provide some relief to rural residents facing economic difficulties.
“With this peace pact, our communities may have some relief—enough to harvest farm produce and face life. People in the southern and eastern parts of Katsina have suffered heavy economic losses,” he noted.
