Kachalla Ummaru, widely recognized as a prominent bandit leader, has issued a stern warning to security agencies, advising against the use of military force as a solution to the ongoing insecurity, arguing that such tactics only exacerbate the problem.
These statements were made during a peace forum involving armed factions and local leaders in Katsina State’s Matazu Local Government Area.
Footage released by the counter-insurgency group Zagazola Makama shows Ummaru explaining that violent crackdowns lead to increased recruitment. “If you eliminate 10 of us today, tomorrow 20 more will appear. Kill 20, and 30 others will rise from the forests and villages,” he asserted.
He further criticized the government for prioritizing revenue generation over the welfare of its citizens. “The reality is, the government is indifferent to the people’s plight; their main concern is making money. If they truly cared, these crises wouldn’t persist,” Ummaru added.
Ummaru also pointed fingers at local residents for collaborating with security forces by providing intelligence. “You, the people of Matazu LGA, contribute to the problem by frequently informing security operatives. Even when they arrive, they fail to inflict any real damage, yet the media reports that 10 bandits have been neutralized and rewards given,” he said. “Unless these forces are instructed to leave us alone, these peace discussions will be meaningless.”
Addressing the divisional police officer (DPO) of Danmusa LGA directly, Ummaru emphasized the importance of mutual cooperation for the peace talks to succeed. “To the DPO of Danmusa, if you want these negotiations to bear fruit, every request we make must be honored from your side,” he stated.
“Likewise, any favor you ask from us, we ensure it is fulfilled. It would be dishonorable if you come to us with a request and we refuse, just as it would be shameful if we come to you and you deny us. Let us support each other and foster peace. I hope all that we have discussed will benefit everyone involved.”
The gathering, which included community elders and security officials, was organized to promote dialogue and reconciliation amid the persistent violence affecting Katsina and neighboring regions.
In a hopeful development last week, 28 hostages were released in Faskari LGA following negotiations facilitated by local leaders. Observers have called on both security forces and armed groups to commit sincerely to peace for the protection of local communities.
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