Matawalle To Bello: Negotiate With Bandits To Free Kagara Kidnap Victims

The Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle on Thursday said he has advised the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Bello to negotiate with bandits stating that negotiation is not a sign of weakness but part of peace efforts to restore tranquillity.

Matawalle stated this following the remark made by the Niger State Government on Wednesday that its administration will not pay any ransom to bandits.

Matawelle who said he realised that all bandits were criminals said he also inherited banditry from the previous administration and he has been making conscious efforts to restore peace back into the state. 

He, however, said his government will continue to negotiate with the bandits no matter what the opposition says. adding that what is currently happening in Zamfara is insurgency and not banditry.

According to him, “It had been there for almost eight years before I came. Following the dialogue I initiated with the bandits, Zamfara is now very calm”.

“I have advised the Governor of Niger to meet with all stakeholders and find out the root cause of the crisis so as to initiate dialogue and ensure reconciliation. That is the only way to achieve what I have been able to achieve in my State.

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“Most of the criminals that caused trouble in Zamfara were not from my State. Two months ago, we had some repentant bandits who surrendered their weapons. One was from Yobe, two from Kaduna, two from Niger; so, you see, it is a gang.”

Matawalle confirmed talks were still ongoing with Bello concerning his state. He disclosed that the governor was following steps for peace, adding that there shall be an end to the clashes soon.

AllNews had reported that some unknown bandits stormed Government Science College in Kagara, Niger State and abducted no fewer than 42 students and staffs.

However, the Federal Government had immediately dispatched armed force and police to the state to ensure they bring back the abductees.