North-West governors reject talks with bandits, demand surrender

Governors of Nigeria's North-West region have adopted a firm stance against the persistent menace of banditry, declaring unequivocally that they will not engage in negotiations with criminal elements. This resolute position, articulated by Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu in Katsina, signals a unified front aimed at restoring peace and security to a region plagued by relentless violence.

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

Speaking at the commissioning of a road project in Katsina, Governor Aliyu stated that the only terms offered to bandits are unconditional surrender. This approach reflects a growing frustration with protracted conflicts and a belief that concessions embolden criminal enterprises. The commitment extends beyond mere rhetoric, with state governments channeling substantial resources into security operations and bolstering the capacity of conventional security agencies.

The governors are not only focusing on security operations but also on fostering community engagement. They are urging citizens to be vigilant, report suspicious activities, and actively participate in safeguarding their localities. The acknowledgment that local collaboration often aids bandits underscores the critical need for community buy-in and intelligence sharing to effectively dismantle these networks.

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

Governor Aliyu also lauded the initiative of establishing community guard corps, inspired by Katsina State's pioneering efforts. This reflects a pragmatic approach to security, recognizing that a multi-layered strategy involving both state-led operations and community-based security mechanisms is essential. The North-West governors' united resolve and their call for collective action represent a significant step towards tackling the complex security challenges confronting the region, aiming to provide a much-needed sense of safety and stability for their citizens.

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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.