Security experts and residents have expressed serious concern following revelations that the Katsina State Government plans to release at least 70 suspected bandits from custody as part of a peace agreement with armed groups operating in the state.
Critics warn that the move could worsen the already fragile security situation in neighbouring Kano State, where bandit attacks have escalated in recent months.
Armed groups are said to be crossing from border communities in Katsina into Kano’s Tsanyawa, Shanono and Gwarzo local government areas, carrying out attacks before retreating back across the state boundaries.
The controversy followed the emergence of a letter dated January 2, written by the Katsina State Government to the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Musa Abubakar.
The letter, signed by the Director of Public Prosecution, Abdurahman Umar, requested the immediate release of 70 suspects described as part of the conditions agreed upon by bandits to sustain a peace deal with the government.
Reacting to the development, security analyst, Dr. Bashir Kurfi described the planned release as a dangerous gamble that could further destabilise Kano and the entire North-West region.
“This is not a small risk; it is a flawed strategy,” Kurfi said in an interview with Trust TV. “How do you negotiate peace with people who have committed heinous crimes—rape, murder, and the destruction of families—without consulting the affected communities and without ensuring they surrender their weapons?”
He strongly condemned the proposed release, warning that it would likely lead to renewed and intensified attacks.
“Communities in Kano along the Katsina border should brace themselves. There is a strong possibility of increased attacks if these individuals are released,” he warned.
Dr. Kurfi also alleged that some politicians were exploiting the insecurity for political advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Similarly, a retired military officer and security commentator, Major Muhammad Bashir Galma (rtd), told DAILY POST that Katsina and other North-Western states must adopt a unified approach to tackling banditry.
“No state can isolate itself under the guise of peace talks, release armed criminals, and allow them to find safe haven while attacking neighbouring states,” Galma said.
“I agree with experts that releasing these suspects will only worsen insecurity, particularly in Kano. Governors in the region must work together if they are serious about ending this crisis.”
Meanwhile, in Kano State, widely seen as the most likely target of displaced bandits, public attention has been partly diverted by a political rift between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his political mentor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Residents of affected communities, however, say the fear remains real.
Speaking to DAILY POST, Ammar Wakili, a youth from Shanono Local Government Area, said locals were alarmed by the news of the planned release.
“We heard about it and we are deeply worried, but there is nothing we can do to stop it,” he said. “There has been a slight improvement in the past two days because the military is making efforts, but we fear the bandits may regroup and return stronger.”
A displaced resident, Maryama Audu, who fled Shanono to stay with relatives in Kano city, said she had been considering returning home before the news broke.
“There was some calm, and I was thinking of going back to the village, but this development has made me pause. We are truly living in fear.” she said.
Residents have called on northern state governments to collaborate and take decisive, collective action against banditry.
As criticism continues to mount, all eyes are now on the Katsina State Government over how it will proceed with the controversial plan, and whether it will reconsider the decision in the interest of regional security and lasting peace.
