A prominent bandit leader who embraced peace in Jibia, Abdu Lankai, has regained his freedom after spending eight days in the custody of a rival armed group opposed to the peace agreement in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Reports from Jibia indicate that the crisis erupted after a failed reconciliation meeting, during which seven members of Lankai’s group were killed, while some of his repentant followers sustained injuries during a gun battle. It was confirmed that two of the injured are currently receiving emergency medical treatment at a hospital in Katsina.
Abdu Lankai rose to prominence after accepting a peace agreement that prohibited bandit activities in Jibia Local Government Area, a move that significantly contributed to the reduction of attacks in the area. Jibia is among the first local government areas in Katsina State to enter into such a peace deal, which residents regard as one of the most effective.
The conflict reportedly broke out between Friday, January 23, and Sunday, following a dispute between Lankai and rival factions loyal to Dogo Rabe and a commander known as Black, who are alleged to be associates of the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji. Sources said Lankai was lured to a reconciliation meeting on Tuesday, January 27, where his group was attacked, his men were killed, and he was captured alive.
HIKAYA NEWSPAPER reported that tension and fear have heightened in the area since the incident occurred. Similarly, the Secretary of the Jibia People’s Forum, Bashir Lawal, said the community had resorted to prayers and fasting, stressing that Lankai’s role had contributed to improving the fragile peace achieved in the area.
However, on Monday, February 2, 2026, sources confirmed that Abdu Lankai was released and has since returned to his hometown. Security experts noted that the development underscores the need for a careful review of peace agreements and close monitoring of all parties involved, in order to ensure the sustainability of peace in Jibia and other parts of Katsina State.