Dreaded bandit leader Kachalla Ummaru has warned security operatives against relying solely on military force to tackle insecurity in Katsina State, arguing that such an approach could escalate the crisis.
While speaking at a peace meeting between armed groups and community leaders, Ummaru stated that killing bandits only leads to more recruitment and reprisals.
Ummaru claimed that killing bandits fuels further violence, saying: “If you kill 10 of us today, 20 more will emerge tomorrow.”
He accused the government of prioritizing revenue generation over the welfare of its citizens, stating: “The government doesn’t care about anyone.”
Ummaru emphasized the need for stakeholder involvement in resolving conflicts and releasing abducted individuals.
He urged security operatives to respect agreements and work towards mutual understanding and peace.
The peace meeting in Matazu Local Government Area is part of broader efforts to broker peace between rural communities and armed groups in Katsina State.
Similar accords have been signed in eight other local government areas, with bandits agreeing to cease hostilities and release abducted victims in exchange for certain concessions.
