N'West won’t negotiate with bandits, says Sokoto gov

Governors in Nigeria's North-West region have adopted a firm stance against banditry, declaring they will no longer engage in negotiations with criminal groups. Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, speaking at the inauguration of a significant road project in Katsina State, unequivocally stated that the only terms offered to bandits will be unconditional surrender. This unified approach signals a hardening of resolve across the region in its fight against pervasive insecurity.

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We will not negotiate with any criminal, nor will we accept any offer from them unless they surrender unconditionally.

Governor Aliyu emphasized that state governments are pooling resources and collaborating closely with security agencies to bolster strategies aimed at restoring peace. The commitment extends beyond mere rhetoric, with significant financial and operational support being channeled into combating banditry and associated criminal activities. The governors are urging citizens to play an active role by remaining vigilant and, crucially, by exposing individuals who provide information or support to these criminal elements within their communities.

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We must do the needful at the community level by remaining vigilant and monitoring the movement of suspicious individuals.

The governor also highlighted the importance of community involvement, noting that successful bandit attacks often rely on local complicity. He commended Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda's initiative in establishing a Community Guard Corps, a model that Sokoto State has also adopted. This regional cooperation and the establishment of local security outfits are seen as vital components in complementing the efforts of conventional security forces and ultimately ensuring the safety and security of the North-West region.

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I recall that immediately after witnessing the inauguration of the Katsina State Community Guard, I returned to Sokoto State and established our own Community Guard Corps.