The governments of the North-Western states rejected peace talks with the bandits, and declared war on the bandits

Governors of North Western states have expressed their stance on bandits stating that they will no longer engage in any form of peace negotiations with bandits.

The governor reportedly expressed a collective commitment to confront criminal elements head-on, and stressed that peace cannot be achieved through dialogue with armed groups.

The development was disclosed by the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, during the inauguration of the N12.6 billion Yandaki–Shinkafi–Kofar Sauri Road project in Katsina State.

According to him, this commitment is part of a united and uncompromising stance against banditry as part of new efforts to restore peace in the region.

Aliyu said, “We will not negotiate with any criminals, nor will we accept any offer from them unless they surrender unconditionally,” he said.

He explained that state governments in the region are increasing investments in security infrastructure and strengthening collaboration with security agencies to dismantle bandit networks and end the ongoing violence in affected communities.

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Aliyu also appealed to residents to support security efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activity, warning that bandit operations often rely on local collaborators.

“We must take necessary actions at the community level by remaining vigilant and monitoring the movements of suspicious people,” he said.

The governor called on the public to continue to support security operations through prayer and cooperation, and expressed optimism that the actions taken would restore lasting peace in the region and the country as a whole.

He commended Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, for establishing the State Community Guard, describing it as a strong complement to conventional security agencies.

Aliyu disclosed that Sokoto State adopted a similar initiative after observing its impact in Katsina, noting that community-based security structures had proven effective in addressing local security challenges.

He also commended Radda, who chairs the North West APC Governors Forum, for his proactive leadership in coordinating the regional response to insecurity.