The Katsina State Government has defended its move to initiate the release of 70 suspects facing banditry-related charges, saying the controversial step is part of efforts to sustain an ongoing peace deal with armed groups operating across parts of the state.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, said the decision was designed to consolidate peace agreements reached between frontline communities and what he described as “repentant bandits” in at least 15 local government areas. He claimed the arrangement has already produced measurable results, including the release of about 1,000 abducted persons from captivity.
Muazu spoke after public outrage followed the circulation of a leaked government letter seeking judicial action to facilitate the suspects’ release. The document, dated Jan. 2, 2026 and marked “SECRET,” was issued by the Katsina State Ministry of Justice and addressed to the state’s Chief Judge, according to reports.
The letter—signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Abdur-Rahman Umar—said a list of 48 suspects accused of banditry offences had been forwarded by the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs as part of conditions for continuing the peace accord. It added that some of the suspects had been arraigned at the Federal High Court while others were in detention awaiting trial at magistrate courts. The document also referenced a second list of about 22 inmates facing trial at various state high courts for possible release under the same arrangement.
In justifying the plan, Muazu compared it to prisoner exchanges during wartime and cited past negotiations involving insurgent conflicts, arguing that the courts and justice ministry were acting within the law and that anyone dissatisfied could seek redress in court.
The proposed releases, however, have drawn criticism from Nigerians who fear it could weaken deterrence, undermine victims’ rights, and erode public confidence in the justice system—especially as bandit attacks and abductions continue to be reported in parts of Katsina and the wider northwest.
Katsina has pursued multiple rounds of talks with armed groups in recent years, with officials periodically highlighting reductions in attacks in some corridors, while analysts and residents have raised concerns about durability, accountability, and the risk of armed groups rearming or splintering.
