A reconciliation meeting between residents of Jibia Local Government Area, Katsina State, and armed bandits has resulted in the release of 10 kidnapped victims and the surrender of two AK-47 rifles by the criminals.
The peace talks, which took place on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Kwari village, were facilitated by the Jibia People’s Forum, led by Alhaji Gide Dahiru.
According to security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, who disclosed the development via his X handle on Monday, the meeting was attended by key community leaders, including Alhaji Sama’ila Mai Maasara, Chairman of the Jibia Business Association, and elder statesman Alhaji Haruna Sada Zare.
Former secretary of the Islamic Justice Commission, Sheikh Barrister Ibrahim Sabi’u, who also serves as a judge at the Katsina State Court of Reconciliation, emphasized that the negotiations were conducted under Islamic law to ensure a lasting peace agreement.
Reports indicate that notorious bandit leaders, Audu Lankai and Tukur Nigerian, were actively involved in the peace process.
As part of the agreement, residents demanded an end to attacks on Jibia town and surrounding communities, protection for farmers, and a halt to cattle rustling.
In response, the bandits pledged to respect government laws and cease criminal activities.
Confirming the breakthrough, Alhaji Babangida Bracket, a resident of Daddara, stated that the freed victims had been taken to the General Hospital in Jibia for medical care.
