Civil society organizations, alarmed by the new killings, are calling for a review of the peace deal with the bandits

Following recent killings in several regions of the country, particularly in Kataina state, a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the country have expressed deep concern over the resurgence of such concerns and called for a review of existing peace agreements with armed groups in the state.

The group in a statement submitted by Public Relations Officer Dahiru Gambo Rafindadi on Thursday, deplored the recent attacks on the communities of Farun Bala, Dandume, and Kalaumshi, in which bandits killed several residents and left many others injured.

The coalition said the new attacks in the state represent a major setback to the fragile peace previously recorded in frontline and vulnerable local government areas, following dialogue and peace initiatives with marauding bandits.

The report warns that the return of violence raises serious concerns about the sustainability of the agreement, especially as communities prepare for the wet farming season, “a critical time for livelihoods and food security.”

Describing the incident as a “senseless act of violence” that has left the affected communities grieving and fearful, the CSO said that the ongoing bloodshed has disrupted livelihoods and threatened the socio-economic stability of communities in the state.

Acknowledging the efforts of the state Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, in combating security challenges in the state, the coalition stressed the need for a comprehensive review of the peace agreement with banditry, with a focus on strengthening mechanisms that will prevent further escalation of violence.

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“We also applaud the efforts of Governor Radda and the LGA chairmen, and urge them not to give up. The coalition calls for a complete reassessment of the existing peace agreement with a focus on strengthening and maintaining the agreement to prevent further damage,” the statement added.

The statement further stated that: “We must not allow this situation to worsen. Enough is enough! Every life lost is too many, and decisive action is urgently needed. We call on all levels of government to work collaboratively and decisively to confront this crisis before it escalates out of control.

“In particular, we call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s urgent attention to the deteriorating security situation in Katsina State and the wider North West and North East regions. We call for the immediate implementation of comprehensive and effective security measures to protect lives and property.”

“Our security forces are capable and well-trained; they must be adequately equipped, supported and empowered with the necessary resources and enabling environment to carry out their duties effectively.”

The coalition also called on members of the National Assembly from Katsina State to prioritize security challenges affecting their constituents, urging them to speak out and push for concrete interventions to prevent massacres in the state.

According to the coalition, “This is not the time for silence or routine legislative business. The urgency of the situation requires proactive engagement and sustained advocacy.”

While calling for unity and resilience in the face of the ongoing crisis, the CSO expressed condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the affected communities.