Banditry: Negotiation Has Failed, Only Firm Action Can Restore Peace – Analysts
By: Zagazola Makama
Amid ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s Northwest, concerned citizens and security analysts have warned against renewed attempts to negotiate with bandit leaders, arguing that previous peace deals have failed to yield meaningful results.
The debate over negotiations resurfaced following reports of continued attacks, kidnappings, and mass displacement in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara States, despite past efforts to reach peace agreements with notorious bandit leaders such as Bello Turji.
A security expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the inhumane acts of these criminals ranging from killings, kidnappings, arson, and sexual violence prove that dialogue has not worked and will not work.
“For 12 years, innocent citizens have been killed, communities ransacked, and families displaced. More than two-thirds of the population in some areas are now in IDP camps. Despite this, some still advocate for negotiation with criminals who remain heavily armed and emboldened,” the source stated.
The expert further explained that peace talks usually happen when one party is weak, but in this case, the bandits remain brazen and well armed, making negotiation a dangerous strategy.
According to sources, several attempts at peace agreements have been made in Eastern Sokoto, including providing food supplies, livelihood support, and even salaries to bandits, yet these efforts failed to bring lasting peace.
“The government bought food for them, paid them allowances, and even built structures for them in their hideouts, yet they continued their attacks,” another security source revealed.
Many residents have expressed concern that those who previously managed negotiations have not delivered results.
“Those who have held security positions in the past and failed to restore peace are still being consulted for solutions today. How can we expect a different outcome?” a local leader in Isa LGA of Sokoto State questioned.
Experts have also warned that bandits cannot be trusted, as they have repeatedly violated agreements in the past.
“A criminal who has lived off looting will never find satisfaction in anything else. The lessons from past peace deals should serve as a warning. No one is above the law,” a security analyst added.
With ongoing military operations intensifying, security forces are urged to remain steadfast in their offensive posture, as many citizens believe that decisive action not negotiation is the only way forward.
