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Bandits have released 37 villagers abducted from Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, following weeks of dialogue that culminated in a peace agreement, according to lawmaker Abdulraham Kandarawa.
Kandarawa, who represents Bakori Constituency in the Katsina State House of Assembly, said on Friday that the latest development brings the total number of freed villagers to 82. He had earlier confirmed the release of 45 captives under the same peace initiative.
Addressing journalists in Katsina, the lawmaker explained that the villagers, who were being held in Sabe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, regained their freedom without any ransom payment, after prolonged and consistent negotiations with the bandits.
“Today, through the grace of God, we have finally received our people who were held captive. Insha Allah, they are back, and none is left in their hands,” he said.
The newly released hostages comprise 17 women, two infants, and 18 men.
Kandarawa noted that the bandits had pledged to free the captives on the condition that the community upheld peace — a promise they have now honoured.
“We want to call on all citizens to embrace peace. It is everybody’s business. If we have offended anyone, we will amend, just to live in peace,” Kandarawa appealed, highlighting the negotiation’s foundation on promises of non-violence.
The lawmaker also stated that no ransom was paid.
“This is what they promised, and they fulfilled it today,” he said.
However, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, had previously distanced his administration from any negotiations with the bandits, insisting on several occasions that the process was entirely a community-led initiative. He nonetheless praised the effort and welcomed the return of calm to the state brought about by the truce.
