Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised reports that some state governments are engaging in negotiations with armed bandits, warning that such arrangements rarely serve the interests of victims.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku cautioned that peace talks with criminal groups often embolden them rather than bring lasting security. He argued that bandits frequently violate agreements reached with authorities, making the process largely ineffective.
According to Atiku, the idea of government officials appealing to bandits under the guise of peacebuilding undermines efforts to curb insecurity. He maintained that deals struck in this manner usually benefit the perpetrators, leaving affected communities feeling betrayed.
He further noted that public outrage over insecurity has grown, stressing that Nigerians are tired of strong words without meaningful action. Atiku said citizens now demand tangible results, not repeated condemnations that fail to stop the violence.
“At this point, rhetoric no longer reassures anyone,” he said, adding that if verbal condemnation alone could end banditry, the crisis would have been resolved long ago.
The comments come amid reports that the Katsina State Government is facilitating the release of about 70 individuals described as “repentant bandits.” The state reportedly said the move is aimed at strengthening locally driven peace agreements in some local government areas.
Reacting to the development, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) stalwart insisted that the federal government must be held responsible for its pledge to end insecurity. He reminded the administration of President Bola Tinubu of the standards the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) once demanded while in opposition.
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Atiku stressed that Nigerians are no longer willing to accept excuses, arguing that the current government should be judged by the same strict benchmarks it used against previous administrations.
