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The Katsina State Government has clarified its decision to initiate the release of 70 individuals suspected of involvement in banditry, stating that this action is part of ongoing efforts to maintain a peace agreement with armed groups operating in the region.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Nasir Muazu, explained that the initiative aims to strengthen peace agreements already established between affected communities and repentant bandits across various local government areas.

In an interview with DCL Hausa on Saturday, Muazu addressed public reactions to a leaked government letter requesting judicial intervention to facilitate the suspects’ release.

He mentioned that the peace deal, which encompasses at least 15 local government areas, has already resulted in the release of approximately 1,000 individuals who had been abducted during bandit attacks.

Muazu compared the release of the suspects to wartime prisoner exchanges, stating: “Globally, after conflicts, prisoner exchanges typically occur. During Nigeria’s civil war, prisoners were exchanged, similar to negotiations involving Boko Haram.”

A letter dated January 2, 2026, and labeled “SECRET,” emerged online last week, revealing that the state government had commenced steps to release suspected bandits facing criminal trials.

Initially reported by Vanguard, the document was issued by the Katsina State Ministry of Justice and directed to the Chief Judge of the state.

Signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Abdur-Rahman Umar, the letter indicated that a list of 48 suspects accused of various banditry-related offenses had been submitted to the ministry by the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs.

The proposed release was described as a condition for continuing the peace accord between frontline local governments and the bandits.

The letter also mentioned that while some suspects had been arraigned before the Federal High Court, others remained in detention awaiting trial at various magistrate courts across the state.

Additionally, another list of approximately 22 inmates facing trial in different high courts in Katsina State was submitted for potential release under the same arrangement.

The Ministry of Justice urged the Chief Judge to take “necessary action,” referencing the powers of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee under Section 371(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Katsina State, 2021.

In response to criticism, Muazu emphasized that the peace deal has yielded tangible results, with abducted individuals already freed in several local government areas, including Sabuwa, Safana, Kurfi, Faskari, Danmusa, Bakori, and Dutsinma.

He further defended the actions of the Ministry of Justice and the courts, asserting that they did not violate any existing laws, and added: “Anyone dissatisfied with the process is free to seek redress through the courts.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Katsina State Government releasing suspected bandits?

The release is part of ongoing efforts to maintain a peace agreement with armed groups operating in the state. It aims to strengthen the peace agreements already established between affected communities and repentant bandits.

How many individuals are being released?

The government has initiated the release of 70 individuals suspected of involvement in banditry.

What has been the public reaction to this decision?

The public has expressed concern and criticism, particularly following the leak of a government letter requesting judicial intervention for the release of the suspects.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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