Stakeholders in two LGAs of Katsina State have reportedly reached an understanding with leaders of armed groups under the federal government’s Operation Safe Corridor initiative.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency platform focused on the Lake Chad region, separate peace meetings were held on Saturday in Sabuwa and Matazu LGAs, involving local officials, community representatives, and leaders of the armed groups.
In Sabuwa, the meeting was hosted in Dugun Muazu village, with the participation of Sagir Tanimu, executive chairman, Ibrahim Danjuma, the state assembly member representing the constituency, Umar Manmada, the state adviser on health institutions, and Ibrahim Ibrahim (Yarima Kogo), a community elder.
Representing the bandits were Kabiru, Maisaje, Kachalla Adamu Risku, Idi Mawange, Kachalla Damina, Kachalla Murtala, Kachalla Shua’ibu, Kachalla Dawa, and Kachalla Maitantan.
Makama reported that reconciliation and ending hostilities were the central themes of the dialogue. Both sides pledged to “remain committed towards peace and stability” in the region.
The discussions lasted around one hour and thirty minutes, concluding peacefully at 2:30pm.
On the same day, another peace meeting was convened in Matazu LGA at Yargeza Primary School in Dan-Musa, chaired by Shamsuddeen Sayaya, the LGA chairman, along with district head Iro Maikano.
Armed groups were represented by Muhammadu, Sani Yellow, and Ummaru Manore, who participated through mediator Hamisu Bastari.
After one hour and forty minutes of deliberations, which ended at 3:40pm, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to achieving “lasting peace and stability” in Matazu and nearby communities.
Officials from both LGAs emphasized that broader consultations with stakeholders and community leaders would continue to consolidate the peace efforts.
