At least 45 abducted people have been freed in Katsina after a peace effort with bandits.
They were handed over to local officials as both sides push for calm and improved community relations.
At least 45 people abducted by armed bandits in Katsina State have been released and handed over to officials of Bakori Local Government. Those freed include men, women and children who had been held in different locations before their release on Monday, November 17, 2025.
The handover took place in a border village between Faskari and Bakori. It was carried out by a group of repentant bandits led by a known kingpin, Alhaji Isiya Kwashen Garwa. The event was witnessed by the lawmaker representing Bakori in the Katsina State House of Assembly, Engr. Abdurrahman Kandarawa.
The release followed an earlier peace meeting between the government and the group, where the bandits promised to free the captives as part of efforts to reduce violence in the area.
After receiving the victims, Kandarawa expressed gratitude to the group for keeping their word. He assured them that the local government remained committed to supporting peace efforts and preventing further tension in the area. He also stressed the need for continued dialogue and understanding between the Hausa and Fulani communities, noting their long-standing history of living together.
Garwa urged government authorities at all levels to guarantee the safety of those who have embraced peace. He also appealed for unhindered access to communities for repentant members, saying such measures would help strengthen stability and rebuild trust among all sides.
