In recent years, escalating violence in Nigeria’s northwestern states—particularly Kaduna, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto—has led state governors to adopt different strategies to combat banditry and restore peace.
These approaches vary widely, from engaging in dialogue to outright rejection of negotiations, reflecting the differing philosophies among northern leaders in tackling security challenges.
Kaduna: Governor Uba Sani’s Peace Initiative
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has defended his administration’s decision to engage in peace talks with bandits operating in the state.
Emphasizing that the primary goal is to protect lives and restore stability, he clarified in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service that these discussions followed six months of deliberations and did not involve financial incentives for the armed groups.
“We did not offer them any money—not even one Naira. Our priority is the safety of our people and ensuring peace in the state,” Sani stated.
This initiative has already yielded results. On November 29, 2024, the governor welcomed a group of repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari and reopened a cattle market that had been shut down for nearly a decade due to insecurity. He further noted that several senior bandit leaders, along with their followers, had surrendered their arms and embraced peace.
Zamfara: Contrasting Approaches to Ending Banditry
Zamfara State has seen a shift in how its leaders address the banditry crisis.
Former Governor Bello Matawalle advocated for dialogue as a means to curb violence, securing the release of 26 kidnapped girls through negotiations.
However, his successor, Governor Dauda Lawal, has taken a different stance, rejecting any form of engagement with bandits.
Lawal has repeatedly stated that previous peace talks only emboldened criminals rather than deterring them.
“We still maintain that we will not negotiate with terrorists. Our administration has been clear in its approach to tackling security challenges in the state,” he affirmed.
Evaluating the Impact of Peace Initiatives
Before these peace efforts, northwestern states grappled with widespread banditry, including mass kidnappings, killings, and the displacement of entire communities.
The Abuja-Kaduna highway, for instance, gained notoriety as a hotspot for abductions.
Since Kaduna’s peace talks, reports suggest a decline in attacks in certain areas, indicating that dialogue can have positive effects. However, concerns remain over the sustainability of these agreements, as some bandit groups have broken past truces.
Divergent Views on Negotiating with Armed Groups
Northern leaders remain divided on whether to negotiate with bandits.
While some, like Governor Uba Sani, see dialogue as a viable path to peace, others, such as Governor Dauda Lawal, view it as a futile strategy that legitimizes criminality.
This divide underscores the complexity of the issue. While negotiations may offer a non-violent resolution, critics argue that armed groups could exploit such talks without any genuine commitment to ending hostilities.
Expert Analysis
Dr. Isma’il Tanko Wudilawa, a retired Joint Task Force (JTF) commander, noted that security challenges can be addressed through either dialogue or military action.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of Kaduna’s approach, he cautioned that the government must ensure bandits remain committed to their promises.
“The Kaduna model is commendable, but authorities must ensure these groups stay true to their word,” he remarked.
He further stressed that while initial outcomes of peace talks seem promising, their long-term success depends on the sincerity of the bandits and the government’s ability to enforce agreements.
Ultimately, he emphasized the need for a balanced approach—combining dialogue with strong security measures—to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.