Prominent socio-political groups including Afenifere, Arewa Consultative Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Middle Belt Forum have expressed outrage over Katsina State Government plans to release 70 suspected bandits as part of a peace initiative. The groups described the move as reckless and a threat to national security, urging the Federal Government to intervene.
Katsina has faced a surge in bandit attacks with over 1,500 civilians killed between 2021 and 2025. The state government says the release is part of efforts to consolidate peace and secure the freedom of abducted persons. Similar negotiations previously led to the release of more than 1,000 people. The Commissioner for Internal Security likened the release to prisoner exchanges during wartime.
Security experts and socio-political organisations condemned the plan citing concerns about impunity and renewed attacks. Afenifere Organising Secretary Abagun Omololu described it as an unacceptable appeasement of violent criminals and warned that state governments lack constitutional authority to negotiate with terrorists without full disarmament and accountability. He said any negotiation should be led by the Federal Government and conclude with lawful reintegration.
The Arewa Consultative Forum echoed these concerns, noting that releasing bandits could embolden criminal groups and weaken state authority. Religious and community leaders in Katsina also opposed the plan, warning of possible reprisals and renewed violence.
The Coalition of Northern Groups described the proposed amnesty as dangerous and unsustainable, arguing that peace built on concessions to violent criminals undermines justice and public trust. Critics continue to call for legal and security safeguards to ensure that any dialogue does not compromise the safety of citizens or embolden criminal activity.
