Katsina defends planned release of 70 suspected bandits

The Katsina State Government has defended its plan to facilitate the release of 70 suspected bandits, saying the move is part of efforts to consolidate community-led peace agreements with armed groups across the state. The decision has attracted criticism following the leak of an official document requesting judicial intervention.

Speaking in an interview with DCL Hausa, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, said the initiative targets suspects described as “repentant bandits” and is aimed at sustaining peace accords reached in several local government areas. He said the request to the judiciary was made in line with provisions of the Katsina Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2021.

The plan, outlined in a letter dated January 2 and reportedly addressed to the Chief Judge, has drawn objections from legal practitioners and civil society groups, who argue that releasing suspects accused of serious crimes could undermine the rule of law and deny justice to victims. The document reportedly listed suspects at different stages of trial in federal high courts, magistrate courts and state high courts.

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In response, Mr Muazu said the reconciliation process has already led to the release of nearly 1,000 abducted persons through negotiations involving affected communities. He said the approach mirrors post-conflict prisoner exchanges and insisted that while banditry remains a crime under Nigerian law, the priority of the peace process is the release of hostages and the restoration of stability in previously affected areas.