Katsina LG chairman’s attendance at bandits’ children’s wedding sparks concern over ongoing peace efforts.
Weeks after signing a peace pact with bandits, the Chairman of Sabuwa Local Government Area in Katsina State, Engr. Sagir Tanimu, attended the wedding of children belonging to some of the armed groups who are yet to surrender their weapons.
The event, held in Kadawan Dandume village, was described as part of “ongoing reconciliation efforts” between the government and bandit factions operating in the region. Tanimu was joined by Alhaji Ibrahim Bello Kogo, the Prince of Kogo Emirate, and the District Head of Sabuwa. However, residents cautioned that “true reconciliation can only be achieved when armed groups formally renounce violence and lay down their weapons.”
The visit comes amid concerns about the sincerity of peace talks, as similar meetings in Matazu and Faskari LGAs reportedly involved bandit leaders carrying firearms. Katsina remains one of the states most affected by banditry, with continued attacks and abductions threatening the fragile peace process.