A notorious bandit commander, Isya Akwashi Garwa, has released 28 abducted residents in Katsina State after a peace deal with government officials.
The release took place on Wednesday in Faskari Local Government Area, where Garwa, armed with an AK-47, handed the captives over to local council officials.
Those freed were from Mairua, Kanen-haki, and Yar Dabaru communities, which have suffered repeated attacks in recent months.
Local authorities confirmed that the release followed reconciliation talks aimed at reducing violence and restoring peace in the region.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama also disclosed on X that community leaders in Faskari described the move as a positive step. They urged both sides to sustain the peace process to prevent further attacks.
A council official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that no ransom was paid.
“The captives were released this afternoon without any ransom being paid. The bandit leader fulfilled his promise under the peace talks,” he said.
Residents of the affected communities expressed relief over the safe return of their loved ones.
However, many called on security agencies to provide stronger protection to ensure that the peace deal leads to lasting stability.
The development marks a rare instance of cooperation between armed groups and local authorities in Katsina.
While some community members view the peace deal as a breakthrough, others fear it could embolden more bandits if not backed by firm security guarantees.
Katsina State has faced relentless attacks from armed groups, with abductions, killings, and raids forcing many villagers to abandon their homes.
The government has continued to explore dialogue as part of broader efforts to reduce the violence.
Despite the latest release, experts warn that peace deals with bandit leaders remain fragile unless supported by concrete measures such as intelligence-driven operations and economic support for affected communities.
For now, residents are celebrating the return of their relatives, while also urging authorities not to relax security efforts.
