In a landmark move aimed at restoring peace in Kaduna State, a peace deal brokered by the Kaduna State Government has seen several notorious bandit leaders agree to lay down their arms. The initiative, in collaboration with federal agencies, has sparked cautious optimism, even as early setbacks threaten to derail the process.
The peace dialogue, branded as “The Kaduna Model,” is a comprehensive approach combining disarmament, reintegration, and rural development. It aims to address both the immediate and root causes of insecurity. Governor Uba Sani’s administration facilitated meetings with bandit leaders in Chikun, Giwa, and Birnin Gwari Local Government Areas in December, with notorious figures such as Samaila Suleiman (also known as Boka), Yellow Jamboros, and others pledging peace.
The dialogue comes in the wake of years of terror along key routes such as the Kaduna-Abuja highway and Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road, where bandits have orchestrated kidnappings, killings, and cattle rustling. Community leaders and residents expressed hope that the agreement would allow displaced persons to return to their villages and resume farming after years of turmoil.
However, just three days after the agreement, Boka, a prominent bandit leader who had promised to cease hostilities, was killed in what sources described as a military operation. His death has cast doubt on the process, with other bandit leaders threatening to abandon the deal and suggesting potential reprisals.
Malam Ibrahim Musa, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Uba Sani, described the initiative as a “holistic approach to peace,” emphasizing its focus on trust-building and engagement. He stated, “While we welcome those who choose peace, we will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who perpetuates violence.”
Despite the setback, Musa reassured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to the dialogue and announced the establishment of the Peace Dialogue Group to sustain the effort. As part of the framework, activities of local vigilante groups like Yan Sa Kai have been outlawed to reduce tensions in affected communities.
Community leaders, including Alhaji Idris Ardo Barka, have called for sincerity on both sides to ensure the deal holds. Villagers returning to their homes after years of displacement expressed hope for lasting peace.
However, security analysts remain skeptical about the broader impact, pointing out that past peace deals in Zamfara and Katsina states failed due to a lack of centralized leadership among bandits. They argue that a multi-state approach, involving Niger, Zamfara, and Katsina, is necessary to prevent cross-border infiltration.
As negotiations continue, residents cautiously welcome the reduction in violence, with some motorists reporting safer travel along previously dangerous routes. Whether the “Kaduna Model” can withstand early challenges and deliver sustainable peace remains to be seen.
