The Jibia Local Government in Katsina State has pledged to sponsor the education of children of bandits as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts. This announcement came during the third peace meeting held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Kwari village, organized by the Jibia People’s Forum led by Alhaji Gide Dahiru.
The meeting saw the participation of key local leaders, including Hon. Sirajo Ado, the Chairman of Jibia Local Government, and his Deputy, Hon. Aminu Aliyu. Also present were representatives from the Nigerian Army and prominent bandits such as Audu Lankai among other notorious bandints, who are integral to the peace process.
During the initial peace agreement, the Jibia community set forth several conditions for the bandits, including a halt to attacks in the region and a commitment to protect farmers and their lands. The bandits, in turn, expressed their priorities, calling for justice regarding livestock ownership and an end to extrajudicial actions against them.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that Audu Lankai, speaking on behalf of the bandits, welcomed the reconciliation efforts, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding between both parties. He urged that the peace process should remain free from political manipulation, highlighting the need for mutual respect and adherence to agreed-upon conditions.
Sule Gurbi, another bandit leader, noted that since the reconciliation began, there have been no reported attacks in Jibia, urging all parties to uphold the principles of truth and trust to maintain the peace agreement. The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by both the bandits and displaced residents, including access to basic amenities like water, schools, and healthcare.
Hon. Sirajo Ado, the chairman of Jibia Local Government Area commended the reconciliation efforts, stating that it is crucial for addressing mutual grievances and fostering understanding. He reiterated the local government’s commitment to community development and announced the initiative to educate bandit children, offering to sponsor their schooling for six years.
The representative of the Jibia People’s Forum, Sheikh Barr. Ibrahim Sabi’u, emphasized the need for community intervention to resolve any disputes and warned against betrayal of the peace agreement. He called for accountability and urged those who have fled to return to their homes in preparation for the upcoming rainy season.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to adhere to the conditions set forth in the reconciliation agreement. Analysts view this initiative as a hopeful step towards addressing the longstanding issues of insecurity, including terrorism and cattle rustling, that have plagued the region.
This ongoing dialogue between the Jibia community and bandits highlights a unique approach to conflict resolution, aiming to restore peace and stability in an area deeply affected by violence and crime.